Nigerian air travelers breathed a sigh of relief as Arik Air, one of the country’s major carriers, resumed operations following a brief suspension.
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) lifted the ban on Arik Air’s aircraft after a resolution was reached in a dispute between the airline and Atlas Petroleum.
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Mr. Michael Achimugu, announced the development on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
“The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the acting Director General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, has successfully resolved the impasse between Arik Air and Atlas Petroleum,” Achimugu stated.
He added, “By this resolution, Arik Air will begin operations today.”
The resolution comes just over a week after NAMA grounded some of Arik Air’s aircraft on July 30, following a federal high court order.
The Explainer reported that Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation, has ordered the grounding of Arik Air’s entire fleet, exacerbating the current aircraft shortage in the country.
Arik Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, expressed enthusiasm about the airline’s return to service.
in a statement he said, “Arik Air is excited to announce that we have today, August 8, 2024, resumed our flight operations, during our brief pause, we have been dedicated to ensuring a smooth and seamless return to service, preparing to welcome you back on board with the comfort and reliability you expect from us.”
The CEO also highlighted the airline’s efforts to enhance passenger experience, emphasizing the readiness of their staff to serve customers once again. “Our entire team has been working tirelessly to enhance your travel experience. From our friendly ground staff to our attentive flight crews, everyone at Arik Air is ready and eager to serve you once again,” Ilegbodu added.
This resolution and swift resumption of operations is welcome news for Nigerian air travelers, who rely on domestic carriers like Arik Air for both business and leisure travel.
The NCAA’s Achimugu reinforced this sentiment, stating, “The priority of the Minister and the NCAA remains to ensure safe and secure air travel for all passengers.”
