A dramatic scene unfolded at Victor Attah International Airport on Saturday when a female passenger delayed an Ibom Air flight to Abuja, nearly sparking a violent altercation with other travellers.
According to a statement from Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the disruption occurred when the airline informed passengers that luggage exceeding 20kg might need to be transported on a subsequent flight. While most passengers agreed to the arrangement, the woman protested vehemently after discovering her bag had not been loaded.
In a bid to enforce her demands, the passenger exited the aircraft and insisted her luggage be added immediately, threatening to block the flight’s departure. Efforts by Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) officials, Aviation Security (AVSEC), and even the pilot to resolve the matter proved futile.
The pilot offered to accommodate her checked bag in the cabin, but its size was unsuitable,” Achimugu explained. “Uyo operates as a sunset airport, so timely departure was critical to avoid closure of the airspace. Despite this, the passenger refused to cooperate.”
The disruption escalated when the woman re-entered the cabin, ostensibly to retrieve her handbag, but instead blocked the aisle, further delaying the flight.
The aircraft, which was carrying 89 passengers, including a baby and a chef traveling for work, was ultimately grounded when the airport’s airspace closed for the day. Furious passengers attempted to confront the woman, but AVSEC officials and Ibom Air staff, led by Amaka Echetabu, intervened to prevent the situation from turning violent.
Had it not been for the swift action of Aviation Security, the unruly passenger could have been attacked by the enraged crowd,” Achimugu stated, noting that the flight cancellation created scheduling complications for Ibom Air that could take days to resolve.
The airline, in an effort to mitigate the inconvenience, provided refreshments for affected passengers, transportation for Uyo residents, and hotel accommodations for out-of-town travelers.
Achimugu expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing the need for cooperation and adherence to aviation regulations to ensure safe and efficient air travel.
