Aviation industry stakeholders, including airline operators, have recently raised alarm over the escalating incidents of theft aboard domestic flights, involving passengers.
Many travelers have reported that items stored in overhead bins or in their hand luggage are mysteriously going missing during flights.
With airlines progressively increasing fees for checked baggage, passengers are now opting to carry larger bags packed with more valuables as hand luggage.
Unfortunately, this trend has led to a surge in thefts from carry-on bags stored in overhead compartments or tucked under seats, and in some cases, entire bags have been stolen during or after flights. Often, travelers don’t notice the missing items until they disembark, making it harder to trace the culprit.
In response, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has released a report detailing theft and discourtesy cases in both international and domestic flight operations for 2024.
According to the data, Royal Air ranks highest for theft and discourtesy incidents among international carriers, with 58 cases reported out of 473 flights.
Qatar Airways follows closely with 47 cases out of 1,375 flights, while Egypt Air and Ethiopian Air each recorded 47 and 38 cases, respectively, over their respective flight operations.
Domestic airlines were also impacted, with Air Peace leading the way, reporting 404 cases from 15,413 flights, and Arik Air following with 396 cases out of 10,699 flights.
To combat this troubling trend, airlines are urging passengers to take precautions. One recommended strategy is to store your carry-on bag in the overhead compartment directly across the aisle from your seat.
This simple move allows passengers to keep a watchful eye on their belongings, making it easier to spot if anyone attempts to tamper with their luggage.
By staying vigilant and following these safety tips, travelers can play a key role in minimizing the risk of theft and enjoying a more secure flying experience.
