May 08, (THEWILL) – The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has withdrawn action to suspend flight operations following the increase in aviation fuel.
A statement signed by the President of AON, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina and endorsed by other members, said they have listened to the appeal by stakeholders and the federal government for them not to withdraw their services.
The statement read: ” The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) wishes to inform the general public that further to numerous calls from the highest echelons in government with promises to urgently intervene in the crises being faced by airlines due to the astronomic and continuously rising cost of JetA1, that the AON has acceded to requests to withdraw the action for the time being, while we allow for a fresh round of dialogue with government in the hope of reaching an amicable solution.
“We have also reached this decision with the highest consideration for our esteemed customers who have been faced with uncertainty over the last few days and to enable them to have access to travel to their various destinations for the time being during the period of discussions with relevant authorities.”
“In view of the above and in the interest of national economy and security considerations, AON hereby wishes to notify the general public that the earlier announced shutdown of operations on May 9, 2022, is hereby, suspended in good fate pending the outcome of hopefully fruitful engagement with government.”
Fares from Lagos to Abuja, Owerri, Calabar, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Asaba saw a rise by 100 percent.
Airlines charged between N85,000 to N100,000 for a one hour flight which cost N50,000 two days ago, with a full load factor.
On Friday, AON disclosed plans to shut down operations following the continuous increase in Aviation fuel.
The suspension of flight agreement statement which were signed by managing directors of Max Air, United Nigeria Airlines, Ibom Air, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Azman Air, Overland, Dana Air and Air Peace, over the rise in aviation fuel price (JetA1) has since seen airlines pull out citing the impact the action would bring to passengers.
