Passengers Must Switch Off Phones During Flights — NCAA

 In response to recent incidents at Nigerian airports, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a new directive mandating that all passengers must switch off their mobile phones during certain phases of flight.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, NCAA Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo, stated that all passengers are required to power down their mobile phones and portable electronic devices during the critical stages of flight—specifically during takeoff and landing—at all airports across Nigeria.

The directive follows a recent controversy involving a passenger, Comfort Emmanson, and a flight attendant aboard an Ibom Air aircraft. The altercation, which has since sparked widespread debate, highlighted inconsistencies in electronic device policies across Nigerian airlines.

“To eliminate confusion and ensure uniformity, all mobile phones and portable electronic devices must be switched off completely during the critical phases of flight. There is no more allowance for ‘flight mode’ during these periods,” Najomo announced.

He further directed all Nigerian airlines to amend their operational manuals to reflect this new requirement and submit them to the NCAA for approval.

“We will continue to monitor technological advancements and may revise this policy as aircraft systems evolve,” he added. “However, for now, it is the responsibility of the flight crew to inform passengers of this regulation, and it is the obligation of passengers to comply.”

The NCAA reiterated its commitment to aviation safety and standardization across the sector.