The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has denied banning ‘Ghana-Must-Go’ sacks for air travellers, saying a private foreign airline took such decision as an internal policy.
Media reports had erroneously attributed the ban to the regulatory agency owing to a misrepresentation of a memo in circulation online. However, a clearer copy of the document, which was addressed to FAAN as a notification, a copy of which was obtained by the press on Friday showed the contrary.
FAAN, which took to its official X handle to make the clarification, said: “Kindly note that @flyethiopian issued a prohibition of the use of Ghana must go on their flight and not FAAN.”
For its part, the Ethiopian Airlines, which took the decision, explained the reason for its action and exceptions to the new rule in the memo addressed to FAAN and a public notice posted on its social media handles.
The airlines said: “We would like to inform you of a restriction regarding the usage of irregularly shaped packages on Ethiopian airlines flight. It is strictly prohibited to bring ‘Ghana must go bags’ unless they are adequately packed in a carton or hardcover rectangular container.
“This restriction has been implemented due to frequent occurrence of damages to conveyor belts at various airports, resulting in significant costs incurred by the airlines involved.
“We kindly request your cooperation in complying with this rule to ensure the smooth operation of our flights and to minimize any potential disruptions caused by damaged conveyor belts.”