Aero contractors refund ₦257m to passengers in eight months

Aero Contractors has refunded more than ₦257.1 million to passengers between January and August 2025, marking a 137 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.

The refunds reflect growing compliance with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s (NCAA) consumer protection regulations, which mandate airlines to promptly process claims arising from cancellations, delays, or disruptions.

According to figures released on the NCAA’s official X handle on Saturday, the airline refunded ₦257,195,724.39 in the first eight months of 2025, compared to ₦108,308,037.40 in 2024 and ₦32,766,652.30 in 2023.

In addition, Aero Contractors disclosed that it spent ₦6,083,229 on hotel accommodation for affected passengers between January and July 2025. Verified records showed payments to Cocos Hotel and Grand Cubana Hotel in Abuja, NOCY Castle Hotel and Kim Royal Hotel, JC42 Apartment in Asaba, and Mayor & Diplomat Hotel in Lagos.

The development comes after the NCAA, earlier this year, directed airlines to comply strictly with Part 19 of its 2023 Regulations on consumer protection. In July, the NCAA Director-General convened a meeting with domestic airlines, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on delayed refunds and compensations for flight disruptions, warning that defaulters could face sanctions ranging from fines to suspension of operations.

“The figures above show that there is a remarkable improvement in compliance with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023,” Aero Contractors said in a statement.

While acknowledging the challenges facing the industry, the NCAA reaffirmed its commitment to defending consumer rights, stressing that it “will continue to protect the rights of all stakeholders.”