British Airways has denied boarding to 58 Abuja–London-bound passengers due to a faulty aircraft door, according to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, explained that the decision was made in line with international safety protocols.
“The actual problem was a faulty door. So, the seats around the door had to be kept unoccupied for safety reasons. As a result, they had to deny 58 passengers boarding this morning,” Achimugu stated.
He confirmed that hotel accommodation was provided for the affected travelers. Twenty-eight passengers chose to return home, while 30 accepted the airline’s offer of accommodation.
“Affected passengers can file for compensation. Arrangements are being made to airlift them tomorrow morning,” he added.
Achimugu also advised passengers to seek assistance from NCAA Consumer Protection Officers stationed at the airport in cases of delays or disruptions:
“The first resort in situations like this is to locate the NCAA Consumer Protection Officers at the terminal, and they will ensure that your right to care is protected.”
While the decision to limit boarding was consistent with standard safety procedures, some social media users expressed frustration over the condition of aircraft deployed to Nigeria by foreign airlines.
“Not nice at all despite the huge amount of money that they charge,” wrote one user, @NewDawnNaija23, calling on the NCAA to investigate the state of interiors on some foreign-operated flights.
