Airlines oppose planned aviation strike over NCAA ticket charges
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has opposed plans by aviation unions to disrupt flight operations over the alleged non-remittance of Ticket Service Charges (TSC) to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), warning that any industrial action would hurt passengers and the aviation industry.
In a statement on Monday, the association said the planned action was based on misinformation, stressing that airlines have no direct transactional relationship with the unions on the matter and urging them to verify the facts before embarking on any action capable of disrupting air travel.
AON said it was compelled to clarify its position following enquiries from passengers who had expressed concerns about their travel plans in light of the strike threat.
The association maintained that the unions do not represent the NCAA in discussions relating to Ticket Service Charges, adding that airlines already maintain established channels of engagement with the aviation regulator on industry-related issues.
It noted that domestic carriers are currently operating under severe financial pressure, citing the rising cost of aviation fuel, multiple regulatory charges and other operational challenges confronting the sector.
The operators also referenced the International Air Transport Association (IATA), saying Nigeria remains one of the countries with the highest aviation-related charges, a situation that continues to place a heavy burden on airline operators.
“We remain committed to ensuring the safety of passengers and seamless flight operations. We will not be distracted by threats, misinformation or actions capable of creating unnecessary crises,” the association said.
AON warned that any disruption to airline operations would have serious consequences for passengers and the aviation sector, while reaffirming its commitment to providing safe, reliable and uninterrupted air transport services despite the challenges facing the industry.
