Speaking at the presentation of the CPIP to stakeholders in Lagos, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, highlighted that the initiative aligns with Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo’s commitment to addressing the impact of flight disruptions.
Achimugu noted that several quick-fix solutions have improved the situation, with case resolution now reaching a record 65 per cent—the highest in NCAA’s history. He emphasized the NCAA’s commitment to air traveler protection, explaining that the agency is collaborating with insurance firms to create a system that balances passenger protection with operator interests.
One solution, a blockchain-powered portal developed by Breezetech Technologies, was selected as the most viable model. This portal offers near-instant support for stranded or dissatisfied passengers while also considering airline interests. Achimugu described it as a four-way collaboration among technology, insurance, operators, and regulators.
“We want to develop a model that suits our unique circumstances,” Achimugu noted, underscoring the need for operator support. “While this system is already in use across parts of Europe and America, we aim to tailor it to our situation.”
Breezetech representative Francis Ezeng explained that the portal serves as a “one-stop shop” for managing the passenger experience. It allows passengers to check eligibility for compensation and track disruption causes.
Top Brass Aviation’s Managing Director, Roland Iyayi, also highlighted the Domestic Network Alliance (DNA) feature within the portal, which helps passengers locate available seats on alternative flights. He added, “This system discerns the cause of delays, informing passengers of next steps and identifying empty seats on alternate flights, maximizing efficiency for airlines and passengers alike.”
The NCAA’s initiative is seen as a significant step toward comprehensive, technology-driven passenger protection in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
