AON Warns Against Flight Disruptions Over Ticket Service Charge Dispute

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has cautioned aviation unions against disrupting flight operations over the ongoing dispute surrounding the remittance of Ticket Service Charges (TSC), warning that such actions could negatively impact air travellers and the aviation industry.

The warning follows a seven-day ultimatum issued by the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), directing airlines to remit outstanding five per cent ticket service charges owed to aviation agencies.

The unions had argued that the non-remittance of the charges has deprived aviation agencies of critical funding required for airspace safety and staff welfare.

In a statement released on Monday, AON said it had been compelled to respond following concerns raised by passengers over the planned industrial action.

The association maintained that it has no transactional relationship with the unions on the issue, stressing that the unions neither represent nor speak on behalf of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

AON urged the unions to verify their claims with the appropriate authorities before embarking on any action capable of causing unnecessary hardship to the travelling public.

The association also noted that domestic airlines are already operating under severe financial pressure, citing the high cost of aviation fuel and multiple regulatory charges as major challenges confronting the industry.

According to AON, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has identified Nigeria as one of the countries with the highest aviation charges globally, a situation it said continues to threaten the survival of local airlines.

The association explained that it remains in direct engagement with the NCAA on issues relating to the industry and described the discussions as being conducted in good faith and in line with international best practices.

AON warned that any individual or group that disrupts airline operations or compromises the safety of passengers over the dispute would be held responsible for the consequences.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and seamless air travel across the country, adding that it would not be distracted by what it described as threats, misinformation or manufactured crises.