The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has lifted the lifetime ban imposed on Comfort Emmanson, an Ibom Air passenger who was involved in an altercation with airline staff on August 10, 2025. The decision was made after an appeal by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to review the sanction. According to AON spokesperson, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, the operators considered several factors, including Emmanson’s expression of remorse, the withdrawal of the formal complaint, the striking out of charges against her, and her release from custody.
The incident, which led to Emmanson’s ban, occurred onboard Ibom Air Flight Q9 303 from Uyo to Lagos, where she allegedly assaulted a crew member and airport security personnel. The airline initially imposed a lifetime ban on her, which was later extended to all AON-member airlines. However, following Minister Keyamo’s intervention, the AON has reversed its decision, allowing Emmanson to fly with any of its member airlines, including Air Peace and Max Air.
The AON has also taken this opportunity to remind passengers of the importance of adhering to aviation rules and regulations. The association detailed examples of prohibited behaviors, including assaulting or threatening crew members, disobeying safety instructions, tampering with aircraft equipment, and smoking in restricted areas. According to Okonkwo, pilots-in-command and aviation security officers are empowered by law to restrain or deboard disruptive individuals to protect the safety and order of aviation operations.
Furthermore, the AON has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards unruly passenger behavior and encouraged aggrieved passengers to channel complaints through official avenues rather than resorting to unacceptable conduct. The association has also pledged to cooperate with relevant aviation agencies and participate in retraining retreats on how to handle cases of unruly and disruptive passengers, as proposed by Minister Keyamo.
The lifting of Emmanson’s ban marks a significant step in resolving the case, which drew public attention to passenger conduct and enforcement powers in the aviation sector. The AON’s decision is seen as a response to the minister’s appeal and a demonstration of the industry’s commitment to balancing punishment with rehabilitation and safety.
