Airlines Reject Strike Threat, Say Disruption Will Hurt Passengers
By Admin, Lagos
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has rejected plans by some aviation unions to disrupt flight operations over the alleged non-remittance of Ticket Service Charges (TSC) to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The operators warned that any industrial action would negatively affect passengers and the aviation sector.
In a statement, the association said airlines have no direct transactional relationship with the unions on the issue and urged them to verify the facts before taking actions capable of disrupting air travel.
“We would not ordinarily respond to this matter, but the numerous enquiries from concerned passengers about their travel plans have made it necessary to clarify our position,” the statement said.
AON maintained that the unions do not represent the NCAA in discussions relating to the Ticket Service Charges and described the threats as being based on misinformation.
The association noted that domestic airlines are already grappling with harsh operating conditions, including the rising cost of aviation fuel and multiple regulatory charges.
“Nigerian airlines are operating under significant financial pressure. This is not the time for actions that could further destabilise the industry,” the group stated.
According to AON, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has consistently identified Nigeria as one of the countries with the highest aviation-related charges, a situation it said continues to put pressure on airline operators.
The association added that it maintains established channels of engagement with the NCAA and that discussions on industry-related issues are ongoing.
It warned that anyone who disrupts airline operations or compromises the safety and convenience of passengers over the dispute would be held accountable for the consequences, while calling on relevant authorities to closely monitor the situation.
AON also reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe and reliable air transport services, stressing that its members remain focused on supporting Nigeria’s economy despite the challenges facing the aviation industry.
“We remain committed to ensuring the safety of passengers and seamless flight operations. We will not be distracted by threats, misinformation or actions capable of creating unnecessary crises,” the statement added.