Ibom Air has announced a lifetime ban on Comfort Emmanson, a passenger involved in a violent assault against its cabin crew during a flight from Uyo to Lagos on Sunday, August 10, 2025. The airline’s management confirmed the incident in an official statement, highlighting the serious threat posed to crew safety, passengers, and the aircraft.
The trouble began prior to take-off when Emmanson repeatedly refused to comply with crew instructions to switch off her mobile phone, a mandatory aviation safety protocol designed to prevent interference with aircraft systems. Despite several warnings and a public announcement by the Pilot-in-Command, she only switched off her device after intervention from a fellow passenger.
While the flight initially departed without further disruption, the situation escalated sharply upon landing in Lagos. Emmanson waited until all passengers had disembarked before launching a physical attack on the Purser—the crew member who had earlier given instructions about the phone.
According to eyewitness reports and a viral video capturing parts of the assault, Emmanson subjected the Purser to a violent attack, stepping on her, ripping off her wig, removing and destroying her glasses, and striking her with footwear. She further slapped the Purser multiple times and also assaulted another cabin crew member who tried to intervene.
The airline revealed a grave escalation when Emmanson attempted to forcibly remove a fire extinguisher from the plane—a move that posed a significant risk to the aircraft’s safety and the lives of everyone onboard. The Pilot-in-Command immediately alerted airport security as the situation spiraled out of control.
Before security personnel arrived, the Purser bravely prevented Emmanson from leaving the aircraft. Even after security arrived, the passenger continued her aggressive outburst, slapping a ground supervisor and attacking security personnel.
Eventually, Emmanson was physically restrained, removed from the plane, and handed over to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) security officials. She was subsequently transferred to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.
In response to the incident, Ibom Air has taken the rare step of permanently barring Emmanson from all future flights with the airline. The airline has also submitted a comprehensive report to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), which regulates aviation safety standards in the country.
In their statement, Ibom Air reiterated its unwavering zero-tolerance policy against any form of unruly or violent behaviour on board its aircraft. The airline stressed that such conduct endangers passengers, crew, and equipment, and will prompt the strictest possible actions—including legal proceedings and permanent bans.
“We commend the courage and professionalism exhibited by our cabin crew under extremely challenging circumstances. Their swift and composed response prevented further escalation and ensured the safety of all passengers,” the statement said.
Ibom Air also praised the prompt interventions by airport security and Nigerian Police officers, acknowledging their critical role in resolving the situation.
The airline used the incident as a reminder to all travellers about the importance of adhering to crew instructions and aviation regulations, which are designed to safeguard everyone on board.
“Safety remains our top priority. We urge all passengers to follow crew directives at all times to ensure a secure, comfortable flight experience for all,” the statement concluded.
Incidents of passenger misconduct have raised global concerns, especially with increasing air travel volumes post-pandemic. Aviation authorities worldwide, including the NCAA, have been strengthening regulations and enforcing strict penalties to deter unruly behaviour that jeopardizes safety.
Ibom Air’s decisive action serves as a stern warning and aligns with international best practices aiming to maintain high safety and service standards within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding aviation sector.