Arik Air’s Planes Lifted Grounding, Operations Resume
The Federal Government of Nigeria has lifted the suspension on Arik Air’s operations, allowing the airline to resume flights today. The decision comes after the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, announced that the dispute between Arik Air and Atlas Petroleum has been resolved.
According to Achimugu, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, and the DG of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, have successfully resolved the impasse between the two parties. This means that Arik Air passengers can now check in for scheduled flights.
The dispute between Arik Air and Atlas Petroleum began on June 30, when the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development directed the immediate suspension of Arik Air aircraft operations. The decision was made due to a debt of $2.5 million owed by Arik Air to Atlas Petroleum International Ltd.
In a statement, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) explained that the move was a sequel to an order by the enforcement department of the FCT High Court regarding the debt. The court had attached Arik Air’s aircraft as part of the enforcement process, and the airline was given notice of a public auction of the planes if the debt was not paid.
However, the parties involved have now resolved their issues, and Arik Air’s aircraft will resume flight operations. The NCAA has encouraged the parties to resolve their disputes quickly to ensure the safe and secure air travel of all passengers.
The lifting of the suspension is seen as a positive development for Arik Air and its passengers, who can now enjoy the airline’s services once again.
