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The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has rejected the proposed strike action by aviation unions concerning the claimed failure to pay Ticket Service Charges (TSC) to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), stating that the move is rooted in false information and may cause unnecessary disruption to air travel nationwide.

In a statement released in Lagos on Monday, the representative organization for local airlines stated that it was forced to address the unions’ warnings after multiple inquiries from worried passengers asking about the status of their travel arrangements.

The organization emphasized that it had no direct connection with the aviation unions concerning Ticket Service Charges, stating that the unions did not represent or speak for the NCAA in issues between airlines and the aviation authority.

As per AON, individuals planning industrial action were incorrectly informed and are advised to seek correct details from the relevant authorities prior to taking steps that could result in difficulties for air passengers.

The organization pointed out that Nigerian airlines were already facing significant operational and financial issues, cautioning that any further disruption would worsen the sector’s problems.

It mentioned that the expensive price of aviation fuel, along with various taxes and fees applied to airlines, had brought operators close to the edge of staying afloat.

AON also referenced data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which it stated verifies that Nigeria continues to be among the nations with the highest air travel fees worldwide, a condition the organization thinks is hindering the development and long-term viability of the aviation industry.

Airline operators claimed that the sector needed remedies for its growing issues instead of measures that could make the operational situation worse.

The organization also revealed that it has well-defined communication channels with the NCAA regarding all matters connected to its relationship with the regulatory body, referring to this interaction as the standard practice in the industry worldwide.

It mentioned that talks between the two sides were ongoing in a sincere manner and conveyed belief that unresolved matters could be settled via conversation.

AON cautioned that anyone or any group causing disruptions to airline operations or endangering the safety of passengers during the dispute would be accountable for the outcomes of their actions.

It therefore urged the appropriate security and governmental agencies to be aware of the circumstances and to stop any illegal interference with air travel.

Reiterating its dedication to the Nigerian aviation sector, the group stated that its members continue to be loyal investors supporting the nation’s economic growth during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.

It guaranteed travelers that affiliated airlines would keep focusing on safety and smooth journey services, stating that they would not be swayed by what it referred to as dangers, false information, or created emergencies.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).