- Following the N1.2 billion debt owed the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) by Arik Air, the Association of Air Transport Association of Nigeria (ATTSAN) and the National Union of Air Transport Employers (NUATE), on Thursday grounded the airline’s scheduled flight operations from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, to other parts of the country.
- As at the time of filing this report, the airline’s 13 scheduled flights to different parts of the country were automatically cancelled with hundreds of passengers going through excruciating time trying to take alternative airlines to their destinations.
- While speaking on the phone from Lagos, FAAN’s Managing Director, Mr. Saleh Dunima, said efforts were however being made in Abuja with the two unions to resolve the crisis. He said:
“Right now, Arik is discussing with the management of Abuja airport, as soon as they sort that out, they will resume flight operations.”
- Asked to speak on the profile of the indebtedness, he refused to make its disclosure, explaining that the amount being owed is not supposed to be in public domain.
- Speaking on anonymity, an authority hinted that the Arik air had also failed to remit the passengers service charge of N1,000, the amount which is due to FAAN also runs into millions. The source disclosed that what Arik is owing FAAN from landing and parking fees is N1.2 billion, which is separate from the PSC. He said Arik could only be allowed to commence flight operations if they can pay a substantial percentage of the amount before the close of work yesterday.
- Source: Thisday
