BASL reaffirms zero tolerance for assault on airport personnel

The Management of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd. (BASL), operators of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards physical assault on airport personnel.

BASL’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mrs Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, said this in a release on Monday in Lagos.

Our correspondent reports that on Aug. 10, a passenger on Ibom Air flight QI 513 from Uyo allegedly assaulted a crew member and other airport security staff.

Our correspondent also reports that, according to a statement from Ibom Air management, the passenger has been blacklisted from flying with the airline.

According to Yinka-Olawuyi, the passenger, identified as Comfort Emmanson, displayed multiple acts of aggression and non-compliance, endangering the safety of airline crew and others.

She said the incident began when the passenger refused to adhere to standard safety protocols on mobile phone usage during landing.

She reaffirmed BASL’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and security at its facilities and disclosed that the suspect had been handed over to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit for further action.

“Subsequently, Emmanson physically assaulted multiple personnel, including; Ibom Air cabin crew member Ms Juliana Edward; BASL and FAAN Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers, and security personnel during transportation and processing.

“The passenger has been handed over to FAAN-AVSEC for further investigation, and the Airport Command of the Nigerian Police Force had also been notified of the situation.

“BASL wishes to make it absolutely clear that such behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances, within our terminal facilities,” she said.

According to her, the terminal, operates under a strict zero-tolerance policy, regarding physical assault, or threats against airline crew members.

She added that the management frowned at any form of violence or aggression towards airport security personnel, as well as non-compliance with aviation safety regulations, crew instructions, and disruptive behaviour that could compromise the safety and security of passengers and staff.

“Passengers who engage in disruptive, or violent behaviour at MMA2, will face immediate intervention by trained security personnel, detention and formal investigation procedures.

“Full prosecution, under applicable Nigerian aviation laws; potential placement on airline and airport restriction lists; civil responsibility for losses and disruptions incurred, will also apply.

“We therefore urge all travelers, using MMA2 facilities, to comply promptly with all crew instructions and safety protocols, treat airline and airport personnel with respect and courtesy.

“We also urge passengers to report any concerning behaviour to security personnel immediately and to remember that aviation security measures exist to protect everyone’s safety,” she said.