The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has placed Ms. Comfort Emmanson on a lifetime “No Fly” list after a violent altercation aboard Ibom Air flight Q9 303 from Uyo to Lagos on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 11, AON said it had reviewed Ibom Air’s detailed account of the incident and fully endorsed the airline’s “swift and professional” handling of what it described as one of the most severe cases of unruly passenger behaviour this year.
According to the association, trouble began when Ms. Emmanson allegedly refused to switch off her mobile phone before take-off. The situation escalated after landing in Lagos, with the passenger allegedly physically assaulting crew members and attempting to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon.
“This was not just disruptive; it was a sustained, violent attack that endangered crew, passengers, and the safety of the aircraft,” AON stated.
The group said Ms. Emmanson is now banned for life from flying with any of its member airlines on both domestic and international routes.
AON noted that such incidents have been on the rise, referencing recent controversies involving musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) on ValueJet and Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s reported dispute with Air Peace staff.
The association also raised security concerns, warning that the August 10 incident “exposes vulnerabilities” in the Aviation Security (AVSEC) response. It urged the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to review and strengthen airport security nationwide.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy, AON warned that any passenger engaging in similar behaviour would face the same sanction, adding that grievances must be addressed through due process.
The statement was signed by AON spokesperson, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo (OFR), who pledged the group’s continued commitment to protecting staff, passengers, and aircraft while upholding the highest safety standards.
