NCAA Clears Air On Grounding Of Arik Air Operations

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) refers to the grounding of three (3) Arik Air aircraft following a court order attachment said it is important to clarify that the action does not include the suspension of Arik Air’s overall operations by either the NCAA or the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development as claimed in some quarters.

The clarification was contained in a Press Statement by the Director,Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Authority, Mr Michael Achimugu

”The NCAA is duty-bound to comply with the court order attaching Arik Air’s aircraft (5NMJF; 5NMJQ; 5NBKX) following the determination of its case at the Supreme Court and to ensure compliance with regulatory and safety standards.”

The NCAA reiterates that it has not suspended or halted Arik Air’s flight operations,which continue as scheduled and do not affect the airline’s ability to operate its remaining fleet.

“We appreciate the public’s understanding and patience as Arik Air works through this situation with minimal disruption.”

Recall that on the 19th day of July, 2024, the enforcement department of the Federal Capital Territory High Court enforced an Order made by the Court regarding a debt of $2.5 million owed by Arik Airline to one Atlas Petroleum International Limited by attaching their aircrafts.

Arik was further given a notice of Public Auction of the planes by the Court which was slated to hold on the 26th day of July 2024 if they fail to pay the Judgment debt.