AON imposes lifetime ‘no-fly’ ban on Ibom-Air passenger over violent in-flight incident

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has announced a lifetime no-fly ban on Ms. Comfort Emmanson, a passenger with Ibom Air, following violent conduct during flight Q9 303 from Uyo to Lagos on August 10, 2025.

AON spokesperson Professor Obiora Okonkwo made the announcement on Monday after reviewing the incident report provided by Ibom Air. He commended the airline for their swift and professional response to the situation.

“This was not just disruptive; it was a sustained, violent attack that placed the lives of crew, passengers, and the integrity of the aircraft at risk. This behaviour is unacceptable,” Okonkwo stated. The incident reportedly began when Emmanson refused to comply with safety instructions regarding mobile phone usage, escalating into a physical assault on the crew. Reports indicate that she also tried to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon, marking this as one of the most severe cases of unruly passenger behaviour in 2025.

Effective immediately, she has been placed on the AON’s ‘No Fly’ list indefinitely. “She is hereby banned from flying with any AON member either domestically or internationally for life,” Okonkwo declared. He noted that similar incidents have become increasingly frequent, citing earlier incidents involving public figures.

Okonkwo also highlighted the need for enhanced security measures, urging the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to review and tighten security protocols at all airports. “The AON stands united with Ibom Air and all our members in maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards unruly airline passengers,” he stressed.

In closing, Okonkwo assured, “We are committed to protecting our employees, passengers, equipment, and maintaining the highest safety standards.”

Source: The Nation