Airlines announce flight disruptions amid aviation workers’ strike

Major airlines in Nigeria have announced disruptions in their flight schedules, due to the ongoing warning strike by workers in the aviation industry.

Last week, aviation unions announced plans to embark on a two-day warning strike in protest against unpalatable working conditions and entitlements.

The unions had asked the federal government to attend to their grievances, adding that if their conditions are not met after the warning strike, an indefinite action would be taken.

Warning of potential air travel disruptions earlier today, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) chapter, advised passengers and stakeholders to make contingency plans to avoid missing their appointment.

Hours after the warning, TheCable reported that access roads to the airports in Lagos had been blocked by the angry workers, making entry into the international and domestic airports cumbersome.

Responding to the development in separate statements, airlines informed customers that the strike action had impacted negatively on their operations.

The management of United Nigeria airline notified passengers of possible delays in services and advised them to arrive early at the airport.

“The industrial action embarked upon by aviation workers, which began today, Monday April 17, 2023, has impacted negatively on our services. Consequently, you may experience some disruptions and delays to our services and we advise you leave and arrive early at the airport,” the airline said.

“While we look forward to early resolution of issues that led to the strike action by the authorities and the unions, we apologise to our customers whose scheduled flights have been affected by the development.”

Air Peace, Nigeria’s flag carrier, also admitted that “flights across our network will consequently be disrupted today” due to the strike.

“While we keep tabs on the development and hope things return to normal soon, we regret the impact of the disruptions on your travel plans and plead for your understanding,” company said.

IBOM AIR TO SCHEDULE FLIGHTS

Meanwhile Ibom Air announced that flight operations would only be based on schedules “for the rest of the day”, saying that subsequent updates would be communicated to customers.

“We will provide an update should this become necessary,” the airline said.

“Due to the ongoing aviation union strike action, there may be flight delays and disruptions. MMA2 continues to operate on a best effort basis. Kindly check your map for traffic information and check with your airline for your flight status.”

‘WE’LL MAKE REFUNDS TO CUSTOMERS’

On its part, Arik Air in an email to customers, said refunds would be made to customers who missed their flights.

“The early morning action by the unions has adversely affected our flight operations for the day,” it said.

“Customers are therefore advised that they may witness disruption to their scheduled flights today. For those who missed their flights due to the union action, they can reschedule such at no extra cost. Please call our Contact Centre on 01 2799999 or email.”