Arik Air has resumed its operations just a week after its planes were grounded, following a resolution of the dispute between the airline and Atlas Petroleum.
The suspension, which caused widespread disruption for passengers, has been lifted by the Federal Government, marking a swift intervention in the aviation sector.
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, announced the development on Wednesday through a statement on X. He credited the resolution to the efforts of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, and the NCAA’s Director-General, Captain Chris Najomo.
“The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, and the DG of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo have successfully resolved the impasse between Arik Air and Atlas Petroleum,” Achimugu stated.
The grounding of Arik Air’s fleet stemmed from a commercial dispute with Atlas Petroleum, a situation that led to significant inconveniences for passengers and raised concerns about the potential long-term impact on the airline’s operations.
However, with the Federal Government stepping in, the conflict was swiftly resolved, allowing the airline to resume operations immediately.
Arik Air passengers, who have been stranded or forced to make alternative travel arrangements, are now checking in for their flights as the airline returns to the skies.
The NCAA emphasized that the safety and security of air travel remain a top priority, ensuring that all necessary measures are in place as operations resume.
This resolution not only brings relief to travelers but also underscores the government’s proactive role in maintaining stability within the aviation sector, ensuring that disputes of this nature are handled with urgency to minimize disruption.