NCAA Bans Use Of Airplane Mode On Nigerian Flights

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed that all mobile phones must be completely switched off during flights, ending the long-standing practice of using airplane mode.

The order was issued by NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, during an emergency meeting of the National Civil Aviation Security Committee and stakeholders held in Abuja on Tuesday. He said the decision was taken to remove confusion and ensure uniform compliance across all Nigerian airlines.

According to him, passengers will no longer be allowed to keep devices on airplane mode during flights. All phones and portable electronic gadgets must be switched off, particularly during critical phases of flight. Najomo instructed air operators to update their operations manuals to reflect the new rule and submit them to the NCAA for approval.

He explained that the directive may be reviewed in the future as aircraft technology improves and safety assessments evolve. For now, he stressed, both crew and passengers must take responsibility—crew members by enforcing the order and passengers by following instructions.

Najomo added that aviation security depends on collective vigilance. He noted that threats to aviation often arise from sabotage, disregard for protocols, and weak enforcement of safety procedures. He promised that the NCAA would continue strengthening adherence to national and international aviation standards.

As part of the effort, he announced that mock security drills will be carried out in Lagos and Abuja next week to test response capacity. He said aviation security personnel and law enforcement agencies must be equipped with proper training, professionalism, and clear rules of engagement to handle threats effectively.

Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, also spoke at the meeting, addressing the handling of unruly passengers. He explained that security agencies decide response methods depending on whether a suspect is cooperative or defiant. He said while global practices are often harsh, Nigeria applies a more humane approach, but enforcement must become stricter and more consistent.

The NCAA urged all stakeholders, from airlines to security agencies, to work closely together, share intelligence, and ensure the safety of passengers and crew.