NCAA Clarifies Arik Air’s Operational Status Following Court Order

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has addressed the status of Arik Air following the grounding of three of its aircraft due to a court order. 

In a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, Director,Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the NCAA emphasised that the grounding of these aircraft does not imply a suspension of Arik Air’s overall operations, countering claims circulating in some quarters.

The agency stated that the action pertains specifically to the aircraft identified as 5NMJF, 5NMJQ, and 5NBKX, which were grounded following the Supreme Court’s decision. 

The NCAA stressed its duty to comply with the court order while maintaining regulatory and safety standards.

“Arik Air’s flight operations continue as scheduled and the grounding does not affect the airline’s ability to operate its remaining fleet,” the statement read. 

The NCAA reassured the public that Arik Air’s services would continue with minimal disruption.

The statement: “Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) refers to the grounding of three (3) Arik Air aircraft following a court order/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 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.”

Signed

Michael Achimugu

Director,Public Affairs and Consumer Protection