August 03, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reiterated that it has not suspended or halted Arik Air’s flight operations, which continue as scheduled and do not affect the airline’s ability to operate its remaining fleet.
The clarification follows the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) grounding of the airline’s fleet over a debt of $2.5 million owed Atlas Petroleum International Ltd.
In a statement issued on Friday, signed by the NCAA Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, stated: “It is important to clarify that the action does not include the suspension of Arik Air’s overall operations by either the NCAA or the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development as claimed in some quarters.
“The NCAA is duty-bound to comply with the court order attaching Arik Air’s aircraft (5NMJF; 5NMJQ; 5NBKX) following the determination of its case at the Supreme Court and to ensure compliance with regulatory and safety.
“We appreciate the public’s understanding and patience as Arik Air works through this situation with minimal disruption”, NCAA stated.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
