Ejiro Efenudu
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a fresh directive mandating airlines operating within the country to strictly enforce the switching off of passengers’ mobile phones and other electronic devices during take-off and landing.
The aviation regulator explained that the move was necessary to enhance passenger safety, improve operational compliance, and align Nigeria’s aviation sector with global best practices.
Safety Comes First
In a statement released in Lagos on Thursday, the NCAA emphasized that safety remains the cornerstone of aviation. The agency noted that despite repeated advisories, many passengers still ignore flight crew instructions to switch off their devices or put them in airplane mode when required.
According to the authority, this behavior poses risks of interference with aircraft communication and navigation systems.
“Electronic devices emit signals that may interfere with an aircraft’s avionics, especially during critical stages of flight such as take-off and landing. These moments demand the highest level of concentration and minimal distractions for the cockpit crew,” the NCAA said.
Airlines Tasked With Enforcement
The new directive places a clear responsibility on airlines to ensure compliance. Cabin crew members have been empowered to insist that all passengers switch off their phones completely rather than leaving them on silent or airplane mode.
Airlines are expected to brief passengers more effectively during pre-flight announcements and to ensure stricter monitoring inside the cabin. Passengers who fail to comply may face sanctions ranging from warnings to being blocklisted from future flights.
“This regulation is not about inconvenience but about safeguarding lives. Airlines must implement it without compromise,” the NCAA warned.
Global Aviation Standards
Experts note that the directive brings Nigeria in line with global aviation safety standards. In many countries, aviation regulators continue to maintain restrictions on phone usage during take-off and landing despite advancements in aircraft shielding technology.
While in-flight Wi-Fi and connectivity are now common in some regions, aviation authorities insist that the first and last 15 minutes of any flight remain “sterile cockpit” periods—times when safety procedures are most critical.
“Nigeria’s airspace has grown busier, and passenger numbers are rising. This policy is timely and essential to keeping safety records intact,” said Captain Ibrahim Lawal, a retired pilot and aviation analyst.
Mixed Reactions From Passengers
The directive has sparked mixed reactions among travelers. Some passengers welcomed it as a necessary safety measure, while others expressed concerns about convenience.
For frequent flyer, Mrs. Bisi Adeyemi, the policy is a small price to pay. “If switching off my phone for a few minutes can make the aircraft safer, I have no problem with it. Safety should always come first,” she said.
But another passenger, Mr. David Ojo, worried about losing urgent calls during flights. “Airplane mode should be enough. Completely switching off phones feels excessive,” he argued.
Despite such reservations, experts say compliance is non-negotiable in aviation, where even minor risks can lead to major consequences.
Airlines Begin Adjustments
Several domestic airlines, including Air Peace, Ibom Air, and Dana Air, have already begun adjusting their in-flight protocols in line with the NCAA directive.
Cabin crew training has been updated to emphasize enforcement, while new passenger briefing scripts are being introduced.
Industry insiders believe the regulation will soon become a routine aspect of flying in Nigeria, just like seat belt fastening or baggage stowage.
“The key is consistency. Once passengers see every airline enforcing the same rule, compliance will become second nature,” remarked aviation consultant, Chika Okafor.
Looking Ahead
The NCAA has assured passengers that the directive is not designed to cause undue stress but to preserve the high safety standards Nigeria has achieved in recent years. The authority also hinted at future innovations that may allow limited in-flight connectivity under carefully regulated conditions.
For now, however, the message is clear: safety above convenience. The next time Nigerians board a domestic flight, they will be reminded that keeping their phones switched off during take-off and landing is a vital contribution to safe skies.
