Arik Air Laments Grounding Of Its Fleet By Aviation Minister

Arik Air has lamented the grounding of its fleet by the National Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) following an order by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

In a statement made available to Prime Business Africa on Tuesday, 30 July, Arik Air expressed dismay over the action of the minister, saying the order for grounding its fleet came without prior warning or consultation, and would have serious impact on its passengers, employees, and the broader Nigerian economy.

It said: “This decision, made without warning or consultation, has serious repercussions for our valued passengers, dedicated employees, and the broader Nigerian economy.

Our priority has always been to connect people and facilitate commerce, especially on critical domestic routes. The grounding of our fleet disrupts these vital services, leaving passengers stranded and inflating already high travel costs.”

The airline further stated that the decision will affect all Nigerians who rely on its flights for business, and other essential activities.

Prime Business Africa had reported that NAMA, following the order of the Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, grounded the Air Air fleet over legal issues between the airline and Atlas Petroleum involving $2.5 million debt owed the latter.

READ ALSO: NAMA Grounds Arik Air Fleet Over $2.5m Debt

NAMA said Keyamo’s order was to comply with a court order regarding the debt.

However, Arik Air argued that the minister’s decision disregards the ongoing judicial processes on the matter, adding that it undermines the rule of law.

It said: “On 26 February 2016, a judgment was made in favor of Atlas Petroleum International Limited and Engineer Arthur Eze. However, there is an ongoing case in the Federal High Court, where Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) is asserting its secured interest in Arik’s assets.”

According to the airilne, “Despite this, a writ of attachment was issued on July 18, 2024, targeting our Aircraft, subsequent to which, further to an originating motion filed by AMCON, the High Court of the FCT on July 25, 2024 clearly instructed all parties to maintain status quo.”

The airline said given the current status of the matter in court, grounding its fleet, came as a surprise.

It insisted that the action is an overreach of the ongoing judicial processes and directives of court.

“We believe this action undermines the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent, prioritizing unsecured private interests over the public good and the rights of secured creditors. “We are committed to following the legal process and have full faith in the judiciary to resolve these matters fairly.”

It urged the authorities to reconsider the decision, and lift the grounding order to allow the company to continue serving the public and supporting the economy.

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It expressed regret for the inconvenience the action has caused its passengers and assured them, including its staff that it is working hard to resolve the situation.