Federal aviation regulator on Monday advised passengers on international flights to arrive at airports at least three hours before departure, citing differing airline check-in cut-off times.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), issued the warning on his verified X account.
“For international flights, please, be at the airport three hours before departure. Some airlines close their check-in counter earlier than others. Also, if you can, check in online and secure a seat number. I can’t stress this enough. Better to be too early for your flight, than be late,” Achimugu wrote.
The advisory forms part of ongoing NCAA efforts to cut delays and missed flights caused by late passenger arrivals. Industry stakeholders have long noted that check-in and boarding deadlines vary between carriers, making early arrival particularly important for overseas departures.
Achimugu also encouraged travellers to complete online check-in where possible to secure seat assignments in advance.
