Aviation shutdown: Four airlines back out as FG intensifies lobbying

Barring last-minute changes, at least four airlines will not partake in the shutdown directed by the Airline Operators Association of Nigeria (AON).

The airlines include: Ibom Air, Dana Air, Air and Green Africa.

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The Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika disclosed this on Sunday in a statement signed by Dr. James Odaudu, his media aide.

The statement said, “It is gratifying that members of the Association have started reviewing the decision to withdraw flight services from tomorrow, with Ibom Air, Green Africa Airlines, Arik, Dana and some others having given indications that they will carry on with their normal flight schedules.

“We hope and believe that a few hesitant members will consider the dire implications of the planned action for businesses and individuals and review their decision likewise.”

The minister also “assured foreign airlines operating in the country that all the requisite logistics and services for their operations remain in place as usual and that no disruptions whatsoever should be envisaged.”

He called on the members of AON to commit to undisrupted flight services nationwide while the Ministry of Aviation, in concert with other relevant stakeholders, continue with ongoing efforts at finding a lasting solution to the perplexing issue of aviation fuel availability and affordability, in the overall interest of the industry and the economy at large.

Sirika, however, noted that “the decision of the Association is purely a business one as they are private businesses reacting to market forces while appealing for government interventions to enable them carry on with their operations.”

“The Ministry has always made conscious efforts to assist and promote the operational interests of AON, some of which includes facilitating a meeting between the Association and Mr President, during which it got several concessions, including duty-free importation of aircraft, engines, spare parts and components.”

He also said at various times he personally took members of the Association to engage with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to sort out issues of access to Foreign Exchange (FOREX) for their operations, and also the NNPC to explore ways of ensuring the availability of Aviation fuel (JET A1) through importation or from the major Marketers at affordable prices.