AON imposes lifetime “No Fly” ban on Ibom Air passenger

By Ifeoma Nwovu

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has imposed a lifetime “No Fly” ban on Comfort Emmanson, the passenger at the centre of a violent incident aboard Ibom Air flight Q9 303 from Uyo to Lagos on August 10, 2025.

In a worded statement, AON spokesman, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, described the incident as one of the most extreme cases of unruly behaviour seen in Nigerian aviation this year.

The incident began when Ms Emmanson allegedly refused to comply with safety instructions on mobile phone usage, which escalated into a physical assault on Ibom Air crew members and an attempt to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon.

While describing the attack as “a sustained, violent act that could endanger lives and the aircraft itself,” Prof Okonkwo said the industry body fully backed Ibom Air’s swift and its professionalism in handling the matter.

The indefinite ban means Ms Emmanson will not be allowed to fly with any AON member airline, domestically or internationally, for life.

AON also cited recent cases of unruly behaviour, including incidents involving Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal on ValueJet and Senator Adams Oshiomhole on Air Peace, as proof of a worrying trend.

The association urged the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to urgently strengthen aviation security measures nationwide.

AON reiterated its commitment on zero-tolerance stance and warned that any future passenger engaging in similar misconduct would face the same fate.

“While passengers have the right to voice grievances, it must be done through due process. We are committed to protecting our employees, passengers, equipment, and upholding the highest safety standards.”