The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has appealed to aviation unions who are currently picketing airlines to sheathe their swords and exercise restraint pending the return of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, who the Authority said has been actively working towards resolving the issues.
A statement by Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, Director General Civil Aviation , said the matter would have been addressed at the meeting convened by the Minister last week, but the meeting could not hold as the airline operators failed to honour the invitation.
The NCAA however assured the travelling public that flight safety remains uncompromised adding that the Authority continues to exercise its statutory safety oversight responsibilities.
‘We appeal to all parties to embrace dialogue and cooperation. We are confident that the matter will be resolved shortly and normal flight operations will resume as soon as practicable.
“The NCAA regrets the inconvenience caused to passengers and appreciates their patience and understanding.”, he said.
Meanwhile, Air Peace has announced a temporary disruptions to its flight operations as the picketing of the airline has grounded its operations.
This is as a result of the ongoing industrial action by members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
“The ongoing industrial action has resulted in the barricading of the entrances to our departure terminals at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 (Alpha and Zulu Terminals) and Terminal 2 in Lagos, as well as the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Terminal in Abuja.
“The blockade has restricted access to these terminals, preventing the departure of scheduled flights from Lagos and Abuja. Consequently, passengers scheduled to travel across our network have been significantly affected by the disruption to flight operations.
“Air Peace sincerely apologises to all affected and stranded passengers for the disruption and inconvenience caused by circumstances beyond the airline’s control.”, it said.
It added that assengers scheduled to travel later today are being contacted and provided with relevant updates as the situation evolves.
“Air Peace continues to closely monitor developments and will provide further updates as necessary. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our passengers as we navigate this situation.”, the airline said.
