NAMA lifts ban on Arik Air as dispute with Atlas Petroleum resolved

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has officially lifted the suspension on Arik Air, allowing the airline to resume operations after resolving its dispute with Atlas Petroleum.

The development was announced by Mr. Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), via the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

On July 30, 2024, it was reported that NAMA had grounded several of Arik Air’s aircraft due to a federal high court order linked to the dispute with Atlas Petroleum.

However, in his latest statement, Achimugu confirmed that the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Acting Director-General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, successfully mediated the conflict, leading to the resumption of Arik Air’s services.

“The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Acting Director-General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, have successfully resolved the impasse between Arik Air and Atlas Petroleum,” Achimugu stated. “With this resolution, Arik Air will commence operations today. The priority of the Minister and the NCAA remains to ensure safe and secure air travel for all passengers. Arik Air passengers are currently checking in for scheduled flights.”

https://twitter.com/mikeachimugu01/status/1821570598876664142?t=k7i6ZDqwbzfVmwiVlyRrWQ&s=19

In alignment with this, Arik Air also released a statement through its Chief Executive Officer, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, expressing excitement about the resumption of flights.

“Arik Air is excited to announce that we have today, August 8, 2024, resumed our flight operations. During our brief pause, we were dedicated to ensuring a smooth and seamless return to service, preparing to welcome you back on board with the comfort and reliability you expect from us,” Ilegbodu said.

He added, “Our entire team has been working tirelessly to enhance your travel experience. From our friendly ground staff to our attentive flight crews, everyone at Arik Air is ready and eager to serve you once again. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, you can rely on Arik Air to get you to your destination.”

This resolution brings relief to Arik Air passengers who were impacted by the temporary suspension, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to providing safe and reliable service.