The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has clarified that it did not suspend or halt Arik Air’s flight operations, which continued as scheduled and did not affect the airline’s ability to operate its remaining fleet.
The Authority made this clarification in a statement signed and forwarded to journalists in Abuja by Mr Michael Achimugu, the NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection.
According to Achimugu, NCAA is duty-bound to comply with the court order attaching Arik Air’s aircraft (5NMJF, 5NMJQ, and 5NBKX) following determination of its case at the Supreme Court and to ensure compliance with regulatory and safety standards.
The statement reads: “Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) refers to the grounding of three (3) Arik Air aircraft following a court order or attachment.
“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 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 reiterated that it had 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.”