AON says planned industrial action by aviation unions is based on misinformation, warns that any disruption will hurt passengers and strain an already challenged industry…..
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has cautioned aviation unions against disrupting flight operations over allegations that domestic airlines have failed to remit Ticket Service Charges (TSC) to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The warning comes after the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) issued a fresh seven-day ultimatum demanding the payment of outstanding five per cent Ticket Service Charges owed to aviation agencies.
The unions argued that the continued non-remittance of the charges has reduced the revenue available to aviation agencies, affecting both safety-related operations and workers’ welfare.
Responding in a statement on Monday, the AON dismissed the unions’ claims and maintained that the associations have no role in matters relating to the financial relationship between airline operators and the NCAA.
According to the airline body, the unions are acting on inaccurate information and should verify the facts with the appropriate authorities before taking any action that could disrupt air travel across the country.
The association said it decided to respond publicly following growing concerns from passengers seeking clarification over reports of possible flight disruptions.
AON stressed that issues relating to Ticket Service Charges are handled directly between airline operators and the NCAA through established communication channels, noting that discussions with the regulator remain ongoing.
The association also expressed concern over the financial pressures facing domestic airlines, describing the operating environment as increasingly difficult due to soaring aviation fuel prices and multiple statutory charges.
It cited industry concerns that Nigeria remains one of the most expensive countries in which to operate airlines, arguing that the sector requires policies that encourage sustainability rather than actions capable of worsening existing challenges.
The airline operators warned that any disruption to scheduled flights would impose unnecessary hardship on travellers, businesses and the wider economy.
AON further cautioned that individuals or groups responsible for disrupting airline operations or compromising the safety of air travel would be held accountable for the consequences of such actions.
The association called on relevant government authorities to closely monitor the situation and prevent any disruption that could affect the country’s aviation sector.
Reaffirming its commitment to the industry, AON said its member airlines remain focused on maintaining safe, reliable and uninterrupted flight operations while continuing to engage the NCAA on regulatory and operational matters through appropriate channels.
