The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has formally summoned both the Ibom Air crew and Comfort Emmanson, the passenger at the centre of the recent viral in-flight confrontation, over the chaotic incident that occurred on a Uyo–Lagos flight on August 10.
The NCAA said it has opened a full investigation into alleged misconduct by both parties, following public outrage and conflicting reports about what transpired onboard.
According to the regulatory body, “all flight crew members on duty” during the incident have been directed to appear before the NCAA’s enforcement unit, along with Ms. Emmanson herself, to provide oral and written statements.
“The Authority is determined to establish the facts of the matter and apply the appropriate regulatory actions where necessary,” the statement added.
Ibom Air had earlier claimed that Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone and later physically assaulted a cabin crew member upon landing.
Emmanson, however, insists she was provoked, dragged, and humiliated and that the dispute escalated after a flight attendant allegedly used threatening language toward her during the flight.
She has also claimed that male officials dragged her out of the aircraft in a manner that left her exposed and traumatised, with portions of the incident captured on video and circulated online.
The NCAA says the investigation will focus on potential breaches of aviation safety regulations, passenger conduct rules, and crew operational standards.
The Authority also warned that sanctions, fines or suspensions may follow depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
The date for the hearing has not been made public, but both parties are expected to appear within the coming days.
This move comes amid nationwide debate over how air travellers and airline staff should conduct themselves during tense situations, with many Nigerians calling for a clear balance between enforcing safety rules and protecting passengers’ dignity.
