Air Peace Ltd has said it is suspending all flight operations nationwide with immediate effect over the ongoing strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) workers.
This decision, according to the airline ‘ is necessary because NiMet is the agency responsible for issuing Current Nowcast of Hazardous Weather (CNH) reports, which are critical for safe landings, especially during this season of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Without these reports from the control tower, flight safety cannot be guaranteed.’
“As a safety-first airline, we have chosen to act responsibly by suspending operations until NiMet resumes full service. We understand this may cause inconvenience, and we sincerely apologize. Passengers will be contacted with updates and options for rescheduling. Thank you for your understanding.”, the airline said in a statement.
The workers’ strike which entered day two on Wednesday , disrupted flight services, even though the agency noted that despite the fact that it has addressed 70% of their demands , all pleas fell on deaf ears.
It was learnt that weather services were not provided at some airports as the strike continues.
The Unions involved members of National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) and Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP).
The carried placards demanding better welfare and timely promotions.
Banners with inscriptions : ‘we’re tired of failed promises; and chanting “No weather, no flight! Fly at your own risk!”, were seen with the workers as they moved around the Nnamdi Azikiwe International airport, Abuja.
