The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed all domestic airlines operating in the country to immediately integrate a mandatory special needs assistance option into their ticket reservation platforms to enhance access for persons with disabilities and passengers with reduced mobility.
The directive, which takes effect within seven days, requires airlines to provide passengers the opportunity to request special assistance at the point of booking across all sales channels, including online and telephone reservations.
In a statement signed by Michael Achimugu on behalf of the Director-General of Civil Aviation, the NCAA said the move reinforces earlier instructions issued to airlines and aligns with provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023.
The authority recalled a previous circular dated April 13, 2022, which instructed airlines to conspicuously include a designated field on their online ticket platforms for passengers to request assistance or notify airlines of special needs before purchasing tickets.
According to the NCAA, Part 19.12.3.1 of the Nig. CARs 2023 mandates airlines, travel agents, and tour operators to provide travellers the opportunity to request assistance during reservations, ensure ticket portals contain a specific field for special needs requests, and actively inquire whether any passenger within a booking party may require assistance at the airport or during flight operations.
“The special needs assistance request option must be integrated in such a way that passengers can make their request before completing the ticket purchase process,” the authority said.
The NCAA warned that failure to comply with the directive within the stipulated timeframe would attract regulatory enforcement actions in line with applicable aviation laws.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive, accessible, and safe air travel for all passengers, particularly persons with disabilities and those with reduced mobility.