Stakeholders and disability rights advocates have warmly welcomed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority’s (NCAA) latest directive mandating all domestic airlines to integrate a mandatory special needs/assistance request option into their online ticket reservation platforms.
Issued on January 30, 2026, the order gives carriers a strict seven-day ultimatum to comply, as it aims to improve accessibility and inclusivity in air travel and ensure full compliance with provisions for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) and passengers with disabilities.
The NCAA recalled its earlier correspondence dated April 13, 2022 (Reference No. NCAA/CPD/585/1/22), which instructed airlines to include a designated field, box, or column on their online booking portals where passengers can request assistance or indicate special needs before completing ticket purchases.
According to the Authority, the requirement is further reinforced by Part 19.12.3.1 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023, which mandates airlines, travel agents, and tour operators to “provide passengers the opportunity to request assistance at the point of booking across all ticket sales channels, including online platforms and telephone reservations.”
Mandatorily include a special assistance request field on booking portals for persons with disabilities or their aides, and inquire whether any passenger within a booking party may require assistance at the airport or during flight operations.
Hailing the directive by the NCAA, Deaf Advocate Dr. Arowolo Ayoola described the move as a right step toward inclusion.
“Glad to also see customer’s feedback and complaints are not taken seriously,” he added.
The NCAA stated that airlines must fully implement the directive within seven days of receiving the notice, warning that non-compliance would attract regulatory enforcement actions in line with applicable aviation laws.
“The NCAA remains committed to ensuring inclusive, accessible, and safe air travel for all passengers,” the statement, signed by Michael Achimugu, for the Director-General of Civil Aviation, read.