BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority (FAAN) have waded into the clash between Turkish Airlines and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over labour crisis that led to picketing of the European carrier on Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
In a statement jointly signed by Michael Achimugu Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA and Obiageli Orah, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN, the two aviation agencies said a wider stakeholder engagement was ongoing to bring an amicable end to the impasse.
“Meetings have been held between the NCAA, FAAN, and Turkish Airline, and NCAA and representatives of the
unions.
“While further conversations are being had, the NCAA and FAAN are on top of the situation and wish to assure all airlines operating in Nigeria – including Turkish and the general public – of our commitment to ensuring safe and secure flights.
“While Nigeria does not tolerate disruptive behaviour at her airports, FAAN has deployed additional layers of security to prevent any further disruptions.
“The issues leading to this unfortunate incident are resolvable and must be done with respect to the law. The NCAA strongly advises persons and groups to desist from disrupting airport operations as it has serious safety and
economic implications for the industry.
“The Authorities empathize with stranded passengers, particularly children and the elderly who have been put through indescribable inconvenience.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure that passengers travel without further delay. NCAA and FAAN will continue to engage Turkish Airlines and the unions in hopes that these issues are resolved
amicably and permanently”, the statement added.
