Domestic airlines in Nigeria, under the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), have threatened to shut down operations nationwide if unions again disrupt their activities. This warning comes after the picketing of Air Peace flights in Lagos and Abuja on August 11, 2026, which caused significant disruptions and losses. The AON condemned the action as "violent disruptive action" and stated that a repeat would trigger an industry-wide shutdown.
The disruption on August 11 brought operations at major airports to a halt, affecting thousands of passengers and causing significant financial losses to the airlines. Air Peace alone had over 70 flights affected, with estimated losses exceeding N2 billion. The AON attributed the disruptions to a longstanding dispute over statutory funds owed to government agencies and allegations of anti-union practices by the airlines.
The unions and airlines have been at odds over the payment of statutory funds, which the unions claim is essential for safety. The unions also accuse the airlines of stopping workers from unionizing, which they describe as unacceptable. The AON, however, argues that the disruptions are not just industrial disputes but also affect passengers, airline workers, and airport security.
The AON highlighted the consequences of the disruptions, including flight cancellations, stranded travelers, and significant financial losses. The airlines incurred additional costs from repositioning crew, rescheduling aircraft, and incurring recovery costs. The association also cited a rise in aviation fuel prices and foreign-exchange-linked maintenance expenses as factors exacerbating the challenges faced by the airlines.
In response to the disruptions, the AON stated that its members had reached a collective position that any repeat of the incident would trigger an industry-wide shutdown. The association described the incident as a serious security concern, citing weaknesses in airport security arrangements. The AON also referenced the International Civil Aviation Organization's Annex 17 definition of unlawful interference.
An industry expert, Samuel Caulcrick, expressed concern over the role of unionism in the aviation sector, citing the dispute involving Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited. He argued that while workers' rights and freedom of association are important, industrial actions should not be allowed to undermine business operations. Caulcrick noted that the experience had raised questions about balancing union activities with the protection of businesses and their operations.
The AON also pointed to various factors contributing to flight delays and cancellations, including bad weather, congested aircraft parking areas, limited operating hours at secondary airports, and inadequate airport infrastructure. The association urged authorities to involve airlines in the design process for airport reconstruction projects, such as the ongoing reconstruction of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Key points
- Nigerian airlines warn of nationwide shutdown over union disruptions
- Disruptions cause significant financial losses and affect thousands of passengers
- Industry expert raises concerns over role of unionism in aviation sector
