Flight cancellations and delays are an undeniable part of air travel, and while they can cause frustration and inconvenience, it’s important to remember that these disruptions often arise from factors beyond anyone’s control.
We understand the stress that comes with altered travel plans, but we also emphasize that responding with unruly or violent behavior is never the solution. Instead, we encourage passengers to address their concerns through the appropriate channels, as outlined in Part 19 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (See QR code below for the NCAA Consumer Protection Regulations), which define the rights of passengers and the obligations of airlines. Understanding these regulations can help travelers navigate the often-complex world of flight disruptions with greater patience and clarity.
Now that you understand flight cancellations are often beyond control, Let’s Dive into some common reasons why your flight might be delayed or cancelled.
Bad weather:
One of the most common causes of flight cancellations and delays is adverse weather conditions. From thunderstorms and hurricanes to heavy winds, heavy rain or dense fog can keep planes on the ground for long.
Unpredictable weather can severely impact flight safety. Airlines must prioritize passenger safety, and when faced with challenging weather, they may cancel or delay flights to avoid hazards.
Mechanical Issues:
As annoying as flight cancellations might seem, some of the reasons for these are valid (Mabinu); Most especially in cases where the safety of passengers will be compromised. Aircraft are complex and sensitive machines which need regular checks and maintenance due to the extreme conditions encountered in the air; every part of the aircraft must be perfectly functioning before it’s allowed to operate. The realization of any setback causes flights to be delayed or cancelled.
Crew shortages:
Airlines require a well-organized team of pilots and cabin crew to ensure the smooth operation of flights, so when there’s not enough staff to fly a plane, the flights get cancelled.
Crew shortages are caused by issues such as scheduling conflicts, health issues of any of the crew members, or labor strikes and these issues can disrupt the coordination of flights. To ensure compliance with safety regulations and operational standards, flights would have to be rescheduled or cancelled.
Air Traffic Congestion:
The next time you experience a canceled flight; it could just be that the airport is really busy and the airspace is congested. Airports are connected to each other, You board in one and land in another, right? This means air travel delayed in one part of the world can affect other global flights. Air traffic congestion can also be caused by VIP movements or if the airport runway is closed
Overcrowded airports and air traffic management challenges contribute to the need for cancellations to maintain order and safety in the skies.
Lack of aircraft:
It’s common for airlines to overbook flights in anticipation of last-minute passenger cancellations and flight changes. Some airlines don’t have enough aircraft to take their passengers, overbooking can also cause a lack of aircraft to serve passengers, especially during festive seasons.
While flight cancellations can be frustrating, please remember that no airline cancels a flight to inconvenience you. Your safety is our priority, and we’re committed to providing you with the best travel experience possible. Understanding the complexities of flight delays and cancellations helps us stay focused on what truly matters—your safety and comfort.
We kindly ask for your cooperation and patience as we work together to maintain a safe and peaceful environment for you.
If your flight gets delayed or canceled, stay calm and take advantage of the time! You can explore our terminal by shopping, dining at a variety of restaurants, or even visiting our art gallery to admire the beautiful art pieces and buy a piece or two! We’re here to ensure your time spent with us is enjoyable and hassle-free.
Thank you for choosing to fly through MMA2!
