The Federal Government has decided to lift the suspension on Arik Air’s operations just one week after grounding the airline. This swift reversal comes amidst a whole lot of legal battles and financial disputes that have kept passengers stranded and flights grounded.
What They Are saying
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced the news through its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, on X. He confirmed that the earlier dispute between Arik Air and Atlas Petroleum, which led to the suspension, has been resolved. Apparently, the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo SAN, and NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, have successfully brokered a deal, allowing Arik Air to resume operations.
“The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, and the DG of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo has successfully resolved the impasse between Arik Air and Atlas Petroleum,” he said.
“By this resolution, Arik Air will begin operations today. The priority of the Minister and the NCAA remains to ensure safe and secure air travel for all passengers. Arik Air passengers are currently checking in for scheduled flights.”
Why was Arik Air’s fleet grounded in the first place? The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has some details that might surprise you. The grounding followed an order from the FCT High Court, which enforced a $2.5 million debt Arik owed to Atlas Petroleum International Ltd. The court had ordered the attachment of Arik’s aircraft as a result.
Why It Matters
Let’s rewind a bit. On July 19, 2024, the FCT High Court slapped Arik Air with an order to attach their planes over the unpaid debt. If Arik didn’t pay up the cash, a public auction of the planes was set for July 26, 2024. The airline tried to appeal, but the Court of Appeal and later the Supreme Court weren’t exactly sympathetic. The Supreme Court even dismissed their latest appeal in January 2024.
On June 26, 2024, the FCT High Court took action and ordered the attachment of Arik’s planes, including a B737-700 and a B737-800. This was a clear attempt to ensure the debt was paid. However, Arik managed to get an ex parte order to stop further execution of the order, though it seems the court hadn’t formally received this.
NAMA’s decision to ground the planes was a move to comply with the Supreme Court’s orders and to ensure that the aircraft, which were already attached, weren’t removed or tampered with in a way that could obstruct the court’s orders.
Bottom Line
Now, with the suspension lifted, Arik Air is back in the skies, and passengers are checking in for their flights again. The Minister of Aviation and the NCAA have assured that ensuring safe air travel remains their top priority.
