By Francis Ogwo
The management of Arik Air has sent an apology to its passengers and customers over the disruption of their services over a disagreement between the management and a section of staff union, which led to suspension of their services on Monday.
Recall that the National Union of Air Transport Employees and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria had, on Monday, reportedly suspended their services over an alleged increment of Terminal levy by Bi-Courtney and other anti-labour practice.
The management sent the apology in a press statement dated Monday, September 14, 2020 and signed by the Manager PR & Communications, Adebanji Ola.
The letter read, “The management of Arik Air (In Receivership) apologises to all our esteemed customers whose travel plans were disrupted by the picketing of our operations by some disgruntled staff on Monday, September 14, 2020.
‘We wish to place on record that the picketing was illegal and has no backing of the aviation unions whose leadership have embraced dialogue by planning to attend a mediatory meeting called for Tuesday, September 15, 2020 by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
“The management strongly condemns this action and once again assures all stakeholders of a safe and conducive working environment. We shall also protect the interest of the flying public for a safe, friendly and on-time travelling experience.
“We are already working with the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Ministry of Aviation and Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to resolve all pending issues with a section of staff.
“Customers with valid tickets who could not fly on Monday can modify such tickets at no cost for future travels. We are working to bring the situation under control and the public will be advised accordingly,” the statement concluded.
