Airlines warn aviation unions against flight disruptions over ticket charges dispute
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has warned aviation unions against disrupting flight operations over allegations that airlines failed to remit five per cent Ticket Service Charges (TSC) owed to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The warning followed a fresh seven-day ultimatum issued by the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), directing airline operators to pay outstanding charges owed to aviation agencies.
The unions had expressed concerns that the alleged non-remittance of the charges was depriving aviation agencies of funds needed to maintain the safety of Nigeria’s airspace and support workers’ welfare.
However, in a statement on Monday, the AON said it had no direct transactional relationship with the unions regarding the matter and accused them of acting based on misinformation.
The association said it was responding due to concerns raised by passengers over possible disruptions to travel plans.
“The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has taken note of threats by certain aviation unions to disrupt flight operations over allegations of remitted Ticket Service Charges owed to the NCAA,” the group said.
AON insisted that the unions were not representatives of the NAA on the issue and urged them to seek clarification from the appropriate authorities before taking any action that could affect travellers.
The airline operators also warned that Nigerian carriers were already facing serious operational challenges due to high aviation fuel costs and multiple industry charges.
According to the association, Nigeria’s aviation sector remains burdened by some of the highest charges globally, adding that further disruptions could worsen the difficulties facing airlines.
AON stated that airlines maintain direct engagements with the NCAA as the industry regulator and that discussions on relevant issues were ongoing.
The group further warned that any individual or organisation that disrupts airline operations or compromises passenger safety over the dispute would be held accountable for the consequences.
It assured Nigerians that its members remain committed to safe and efficient air travel, adding that they would not be distracted by what it described as misinformation or unnecessary crises.
