NCAA: Arik Air’s flight operations not suspended

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) says Arik Air’s flight operations has not been suspended.

On July 30, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) said it grounded some aircraft belonging to Arik Airline over a $2.5 million debt case.

The agency said the decision is a sequel to an order by the federal high court.

It said the court’s order is regarding a case of $2.5 million owed by Arik to Atlas Petroleum International Ltd.

However, in a statement issued on Friday, the NCAA clarified that the grounding of Arik Air aircraft does not include a suspension of the airline’s overall operations, contrary to some claims.

“Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) refers to the grounding of three (3) Arik Air aircraft following a court order/Attachment,” the authority said.

“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 standards.”

NCAA emphasised 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.

It expressed gratitude for the public’s patience and understanding while Arik Air navigates the situation with minimal disruption.