Max Air has resumed ground handling services nationwide after reaching an agreement with members of the Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN), bringing an end to a suspension that had briefly disrupted the airline’s domestic operations over outstanding debts.
The development comes less than 24 hours after AGHAN withdrew handling services to the airline, citing unpaid obligations estimated at nearly N1 billion owed to major ground handling companies, including Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Plc.
AGHAN had initially enforced the sanction after accusing the airline of failing to engage in reconciliation talks and settlement discussions. The move effectively grounded Max Air’s domestic operations, marking the association’s first major enforcement action against a defaulting airline.
However, the association said the suspension was lifted after Max Air commenced negotiations with the affected handlers and made a substantial payment toward the outstanding debt.
In a statement jointly signed by AGHAN Chairman, Mr. Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice Chairman, Mr. Bashir Ahmed, the association said the airline’s renewed commitment to resolving the issue prompted the decision to restore services.
“We have lifted the handling suspension on Max Air after it commenced negotiations with our members and paid a substantial amount of money out of its debts,” the association stated.
AGHAN nevertheless maintained that it would continue to take a firm stance against airlines that fail to meet their financial obligations, stressing that ground handling companies can no longer sustain the burden of mounting unpaid bills.
The association noted that while airlines continue to face significant economic pressures, ground handling firms are equally affected by rising operational costs, foreign exchange challenges and the need for continuous investment in equipment, infrastructure and safety standards.
“We agree that the operating environment is tough for all operators, but we are not exempt from these challenges. Our members regularly invest in equipment upgrades and operational facilities, while also sourcing foreign exchange for critical services. Yet, the debt burden continues to rise,” AGHAN said.
The association further emphasised that the aviation industry functions as an interconnected ecosystem in which every stakeholder must remain financially viable to ensure safe and efficient operations.
“The aviation industry is a chain and not about the airlines alone. Other stakeholders play critical roles in the ecosystem and must also survive,” the statement added.
AGHAN warned that prolonged financial strain on ground handling companies could ultimately affect service delivery, operational efficiency, safety standards and staff welfare across the sector.
The association reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of its members while continuing engagement with airlines to ensure prompt settlement of outstanding obligations and maintain stability within the aviation industry.
