Arik Air expresses concern over NAMA's directive

Arik Air expressed (31-Aug-2010) concern over the Nigerian Airspace management Agency's (NAMA) plan to commence charging navigational charges on "pay-as-you-go" basis for domestic flights. Deputy Executive Vice-President Chris Ndulue said Arik Air stands by the decision of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) on the issue. AON had resolved at a meeting on 31-Aug-2010 that no Nigerian carrier will comply with the directive. [more]

Arik Air: "The issue of domestic Terminal Navigational Charges has been a source of disagreement in the past and successive Aviation Ministers have done well by asking NAMA to leave the matter, but the issue still lingers ... We therefore apologise to our guests who may b e affected should NAMA refuse to grant our aircraft start-up on 01-Sep-2010 as threatened by the agency. It is important to remain resolute on the issue of domestic navigational charges of whatever description, since the issue is still pending in the Supreme Court." Chris Ndulue, Deputy Executive Vice President.

NAMA: "If these airlines do not pay today, we would withdraw our service, and if they like they can decide to fly blindly ... We are just obeying standards. Our decree says we should provide service and also charge for that, but the airlines refuse to pay us. If the Federal Government gives us money to offset our debts, then it is okay," Ibrahim Auyo, Managing Director. Source: All Africa, 31-Aug-2010.