The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has clarified that the recent grounding of three Arik Air aircraft, following a court order, does not mean the suspension of Arik Air’s overall operations, contrary to some claims.
In a statement, Mr. Michael Achimugu, the NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, emphasized that the agency is complying with a court order affecting aircraft with registration numbers 5N-MJF, 5N-MJQ, and 5N-BKX, following the Supreme Court’s decision on Arik Air’s case.
Achimugu stated, “It is important to clarify that the action does not include the suspension of Arik Air’s overall operations by either the NCAA or the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development as claimed in some quarters.” He further assured that the NCAA is ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety standards.
Despite the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) grounding Arik Air’s fleet over a debt of $2.5 million owed to Atlas Petroleum International Ltd., the NCAA reiterated that it has not suspended or halted Arik Air’s flight operations. These operations continue as scheduled and do not affect the airline’s ability to operate its remaining fleet.
The NCAA expressed its appreciation for the public’s understanding and patience as Arik Air works through this situation with minimal disruption.
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