JUST IN: Airlines Suspend Planned Shutdown Over Rising Cost Of Aviation Fuel

On Sunday, airline operators in the country stated that they would not proceed with its previously announced shutdown of flight operations.

The body stated that its decision came after the government intervened, promising to engage in dialogue with carriers in order to find long-term solutions to the skyrocketing cost of aviation fuel.

The operators’ declaration was announced in a statement signed by Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, the president, and other members on Sunday.

The statement reads, “The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) wishes to inform the general public that further to numerous calls from the highest echelons in government with promises to urgently intervene in the crises being faced by airlines due to the astronomic and continuously rising cost of JetA1, that the AON has acceded to requests to withdraw the action for the time being while we allow for a fresh round of dialogue with the government in the hope of reaching an amicable solution.

“We have also reached this decision with the highest consideration for our esteemed customers who have been faced with uncertainty over the last few days and to enable them to have access to travel to their various destinations for the time being during the period of discussions with relevant authorities.

“In view of the above and in the interest of national economy and security considerations, AON hereby wishes to notify the general public that the earlier announced shutdown of operations on May 9, 2022, is hereby suspended in good fate pending the outcome of hopefully fruitful engagement with government.”

Others who signed the statement include Alhaji Shehu Wada, Executive Director of Max Air; Dr Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines; Capt. Roy Ilegbodu, CEO of Arik Air; Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, CEO of Aero Contractors; Faisal Abdulmunaf, MD of Azman Air; and Barr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace.