Airlines With the Most Flight Disruptions in 2024

The Nigerian aviation industry witnessed an alarming rise in flight disruptions in 2024, marking the highest number of delays and cancellations in the country’s history. According to a report released by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), nearly half of all domestic flights and over a third of international flights experienced delays.

Air Peace emerged as the airline with the most disruptions, leading in both delayed and canceled flights. The report indicates that out of 15,413 flights operated by Air Peace, 7,619 were delayed, translating to nearly 50% of its total operations. 

In addition, the airline canceled 333 flights, making it the worst performer in this category as well.

Domestic airlines struggle to stay on scheduleAir Peace was not the only airline grappling with punctuality issues. Arik Air recorded 5,027 delayed flights out of 10,699 total flights, while United Airlines (operating in Nigeria) had 4,559 delays from 7,794 flights. 

The situation raises concerns about the reliability of domestic airlines and the growing frustration among passengers.

International airlines also affectedFlight disruptions were not limited to domestic carriers. Several international airlines struggled with delays, with some recording worrying statistics.

Value Jet experienced delays on 100% of its international flights, the worst performance among global carriers.

Delta Airlines delayed 60% of its flights (235 out of 390) and canceled 9 flights.

Uganda Airlines had a 57% delay rate (96 out of 168 flights).

Saudi Air recorded a 16% delay rate (19 out of 121 flights).

Virgin Atlantic fared slightly better, with just 8% of its flights delayed (26 out of 362) and only one cancellation.
A worsening trendOverall, the NCAA reported that out of 70,543 domestic flights operated in Nigeria in 2024, a staggering 33,235 were delayed, while 1,189 were canceled. On the international front, out of 14,359 flights, 4,426 were delayed, and 131 were canceled.

In response to the growing concerns, the Nigerian Ministry of Aviation announced plans to start publishing weekly updates on airline punctuality, hoping to increase accountability and push airlines to improve their operations.

The rising number of flight disruptions has left passengers stranded, frustrated, and financially burdened. Delays and cancellations not only affect travel plans but also lead to missed business opportunities, family events, and extra costs for accommodation and rebooking.

Aviation experts have called for stricter regulations to hold airlines accountable. Some have suggested increased penalties for excessive delays, improved customer service policies, and more transparency in how airlines communicate disruptions.

What’s next?With the NCAA taking a tougher stance on airline performance, travelers can only hope for improvements in the coming years. However, if airlines do not take proactive steps to address these disruptions, Nigeria’s aviation sector risks further reputational damage.

For now, passengers are advised to stay informed, check airline performance reports before booking flights, and prepare for possible delays when traveling in and out of Nigeria.