Nigeria’s domestic carrier, Aero Contractors, has recorded N257.195 million as total refunds to passengers between January and August, 2025.

The refunds value represents 137% increase over N108.3 million recorded in the corresponding period of 2024 and nearly 250% jump from just N32.76 million refunded in the same period of 2023.

According to a statement posted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on its official X page, @NigeriaCAA on Saturday, the airline also paid N6.08 million as HOTAC (hotel accommodation) for affected passengers between January and July, 2025.

The regulator said the figures showed a remarkable improvement in compliance with Part 19 of NCAA Regulations 2023.

“While acknowledging the peculiar challenges of our operating environment, the Authority will continue to protect the rights of all stakeholders,” NCAA stated.

While the airline may have recorded more flight delays and cancellations in 2025 than in 2023 so far, competent sources indicated that the jump in Aero Contractors’ refunds likely stems from stricter enforcement of NCAA’s Part 19 regulations on passenger rights, leading to more compensations for delays and cancellations.

Possible aiding factors include improved operational environment in Nigeria’s aviation sector and the airline’s recent debt clearance, enabling expansion and better compliance.