Aviation Labour Unions have grounded operations in Lagos and Abuja on Tuesday, 11th August over allegations of the aviation preventing its workers from unionizing, which has resulted in passangers being stranded as workers refuse to remit ticket sales charges that are due to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The disruption of operations at Muritala Muhammad International Airport, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Lagos and Abuja respectively was spearheaded the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE).
According to the involved unions, around N15 billion in Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) was owed by the airline to aviation agencies, while prevented its employees from exerjcising their rights to join trade unions.
The airline’s spokesperson, Efe Osifo-Whiskey claimed Air Peace said the industrial action had temporarily disrupted its operations as departure terminals at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 which includes the Alpha and Zulu terminals, and Terminal 2 in Lagos, and that of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, had been baricadded by protesters.
The blockade is said to have restricted access to the terminals and preventing scheduled flights from operating, causing passangers to be stranded
“The blockade has restricted access to these terminals, preventing the departure of scheduled flights from Lagos and Abuja. Consequently, passengers scheduled to travel across our network have been significantly affected by the disruption to flight operations,” the spokesperson said.
“Passengers scheduled to travel later today are being contacted and provided with relevant updates as the situation evolves.” he added.
Air Peace expressed appreciation to customers for their understanding and patience, stating its commitment to closely monitor developments and will provide further updates as necessary.
The airline also clarified its appreciation of the patience and understanding of its passengers as it settles the issues at hand.