Turkish Airlines to resume Lagos flight operations Saturday

By Mark Longyen

Turkish Airlines has announced that it would on Saturday, May 25, resume its flight operations in Lagos, which were suspended following the disruption of its operations in the state, four days ago.

“Due to actions at our counter at the  Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport that jeopardised our flight safety and continued for four days, we had to cancel our scheduled flights to Lagos as of Tuesday, May 21.

“Turkish Airlines, prioritizing the safety and security of its passengers and crew, will resume flights to Nigeria on  Saturday, May 25, as it has done since 2006.

“As long as the NCAA and FAAN authorities take the necessary precautions and maintain  safety of flights, crew, Turkish Airlines Lagos personnel, and passengers at the airport, we will continue to operate with the same sensitivity,” the Airline stated on Friday.

It explained that the decision to resume operations was taken after holding meetings with Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) officials, and evaluating its request.

According to the airline, the decision is also informed by the fact that NCAA and FAAN have issued a joint press release announcing that additional security measures will be taken to prevent  reoccurrence of such incidents.

The airline also said that the FAAN General Manager shared a written statement with it, committing to taking unprecedented measures to ensure safety of its operations.

“We want to thank the authorities for the assurance they provided, and we would like to emphasise that Turkish Airlines is the airline flying to more countries than any other in the world.

“We adhere fully to the laws and regulations of the countries we operate in and act in accordance with international business ethics principles.

“We have informed the relevant authorities that we will not be able to carry out the scheduled flights until our flight safety is guaranteed and requested assurances from them,” the airline added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the airline on Thursday described as illegal the picketing of its Lagos office by the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), which forced flight cancellations.

It explained that the National Industrial Court (NICN) had on April 30,  issued formal notices of injunction restraining NUATE and its affiliate unions from embarking on any industrial action to disrupt its business.

NCAA on Thursday,  also waded into the matter, paving way for an amicable resolution of the issues, and for the airline to resume full operations, albeit without a definite resumption date. (NAN)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Maureen Atuonwu

By Mark Longyen

Turkish Airlines has described as illegal the recent picketing of the organisation by the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), which disrupted its operations, forcing flight cancellations on May 21, 2024.

The airline made its position known in a statement issued by its media relations office on Thursday.

It said the National Industrial Court (NICN) had on April 30 issued formal notices of injunction restraining NUATE and its affiliate unions from embarking on any industrial action to disrupt its business.

The airline said NUATE’s action, carried out under the auspices of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), was contrary to its transparency and management principles and had caused serious financial losses.

“Our attention has been drawn to various malicious and unfounded publications orchestrated by the National Union of Air Transport Employees (the “Union” or “NUATE”) regarding Turkish Airlines and its former employees.

“We would like to respectfully announce to the public that the Airline has no tolerance for this and all similar illegal and wrongful actions and will act accordingly and exercise all its legal rights regarding the process,” it said.

Turkish Airline further explained that the problem began when it dismissed seven of its employees, who were NUATE members.

The union then claimed that their dismissal was based on trumped-up charges.

“In late 2023, the airline discovered an unfortunate pattern of ticket racketeering, particularly various ticketing reservation violations committed by seven employees.

“This caused the airline significant economic losses valued at more than 600,000 dollars.

“Upon discovering the violations, the airline immediately engaged the union in discussions on how to address the said violations.

“Specifically, the union was invited and acted as a member of a disciplinary committee set up to review the matter concerning the erring employees,” the airline said.

The airline explained that it later determined, after the presentation of irrefutable evidence detailing the employees’ wrongdoings, that the employees were liable for gross misconduct and ought to be dismissed.

It said that after the conclusion of the disciplinary proceedings, the airline advised the employees to resign voluntarily, which three of the seven employees took.

The remaining four employees indicated they were interested in resigning later.

“In spite of the clear and undisputable evidence of wrongdoing identified, the union has continuously threatened to paralyse the airline’s operations in Nigeria by way of industrial action if the employees are not reinstated.

“Premised on the threat of industrial action issued by NUATE by notices dated 28 February 2024 and 25 March 2024, the Airline instituted proceedings in Suit No.: NICN/LA/24/2024 – Turkish Airlines Incorporated v The Registered Trustees of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), seeking to determine the legality of the Union’s (threatened) actions, among other things,” it said.

The Airline said that after the institution of this suit at NICN and after service had been effected on the Union on 9 February 2024, NUATE proceeded to execute their threats to picket it while motions for injunction were pending before the Court.

It said that on 26 March 2024, union members of NUATE barricaded the Airline’s check-in stations at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos State, and prevented its passengers from boarding for over 2 hours.

It was only through the intervention of the airport authorities that NUATE’s attempts to cause a complete breakdown of law and order at the airport were thwarted.

“Premised on the actions of the Union on 26 March 2024, the Airline would like to state that since 2006 when it launched its operations in Lagos, Nigeria, it has continued to put the interest of its passengers and employees first.

“The Airline has always encouraged its employees to participate in any union of their choice and has sought to work harmoniously with all governmental and non-governmental bodies in Nigeria,” it added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority on Thursday waded into the matter for an amicable resolution of the issues at stake.

With the latest development, the airline has now decided to resume full operations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd., operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Ikeja, says its proposed regional operations has not been abandoned.

Bi-Courtney’s Acting Chief Operating Officer, Mr Remi Jibodu, said this at a media parley to mark the 17th anniversary of the facility on Monday in Lagos.

Jibodu said the launch of the regional operations was still in the pipeline, as there was approval for it, and the operator had consistently maintained facilities acquired for the operations.

“The launch of regional operations, considering our track record of continuous growth and excellence, will provide a single hub for domestic airlines.

“This will boost revenue through transit flights, drive economic growth by creating more jobs, and enhance connectivity.

“This expansion will open new revenue opportunities, benefiting all stakeholders involved.

“The economic ripple effects will be felt far and wide, from increased foot traffic in our terminal to enhanced commercial opportunities”.

Jibodu also said that one key achievement of the operator in the past 17 years was the resounding success of its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

He said this had helped foster collaborations with private entities that had enabled Bi-Courtney to deliver world-class services to passengers and stakeholders.

He recalled Chanchangi Airline Flight NCH 334; with registration number 5N BEU, with 70 passengers as the first airline to use the terminal on May 7, 2007.

The chief operating officer revealed that 10 domestic airlines including Ibom Air, Valuejet, Air Peace, Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Dana Air, United Nigeria Airlines, Azman Air, Max Air, and Rano Air currently use the terminal daily.

According to him, more than 10,000 guests visit the terminal daily, including passengers, stakeholders, concessionaires, and many others who visit to shop, eat, and fly.

Speaking on the successes of the operator, Jibodu said that Infrastructural development, establishment of e-gate had helped to streamline passengers’ facilitation and seamless journey.

He added that the provisions of uninterrupted power supply system and the recent development of flight distribution guidelines after the trend of passengers’ unrest at the slightest provocation had given a face-lift to the operations.

He said that the MMA2 training centre was another milestone which had earned the operator several accolades nationally and internationally.

”Our training center is not just a place of learning; it is a symbol of empowerment, providing individuals with the tools they need to soar to new heights.

”Whether it’s an aspiring ground staff learning the intricacies of customer service or advanced aviation security courses, our training centre is a place where dreams take flight.

”Looking ahead, we are poised to embark on an exciting journey toward continued growth and innovation.

”Our plans include further expansion of our terminal facilities, implementation of improved technology to enhance security, sustainable initiatives to expand our cargo ecosystem, and the commencement of regional operations from our terminal”, Jibodu said.

Meanwhile, Mr Temitope Yusuf, Value Jet MMA2 Station Manager, said that the airline had enjoyed consistent support, professionalism and commitment to safety of the MMA2 operator.

Similarly, Mrs Monica Aguta, Head, Aviation Security, MMA2, said that the terminal prides itself on the milestone achievements it had recorded over the years.

She said that security and safety played a pivotal role in the success recorded so far. (NAN)

Edited by Oluwole  Sogunle

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Domestic Airport Cargo Agents Association (DACAA) has inaugurated its Board of Trustees (BoT), while calling for more collaborations with aviation agencies for a favourable nation building.

Members of the BoT and patrons were inaugurated on Friday in Lagos.

Chairman of the BoT, Mr Ikpe Nkanang, in his welcome address said that the newly inaugurated BoT was the second since inception after the last set, 20 years ago.

According to Nkanang, DACAA is  an essential part in the aviation sector as it contributes to nation building, job creation and expanding medium-scale enterprises.

He said: “We call on the authorities to provide the infrastructure that will make Lagos the hub of air cargo in Africa.

“With the population of what we have and the industries, the cargo business is not easy,” he said.

Nkanang called on the Federal Government to support the aviation industry with solutions and policies that would help Nigeria attain its height as the cargo and aviation hub of the continent.

According to him, the new BoT team has aviation safety and security as the core agenda, while calling on cargo agents to be mindful of dangerous cargoes.

“A little mistake of dangerous cargo that enters inside an aircraft can cause huge damage, irreparable, with even human life lost and so we are committed to check this.

“DACAA is committed to train and re-train our members on dangerous cargo and all other techniques that will help us to bring safety and security to various carriers, even the airlines that we are patronising,” he added.

Nkanang disclosed that a little above 200 tons of cargo goes out and into the airport monthly, adding that the figure was not an adequate representation.

Meanwhile, a Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Director, Mr John Ogala, disclosed in his speech that the Authority was planning to open cargo terminals and had established a Cargo Directorate.

Ogala, pledging FAAN’s support and partnership with the association, said that the publics had yet to understand that air cargo is safe, faster and has limited interference.

“So, we are going to partner with DACA, creating an enabling environment, to build a safe, efficient, and cargo-serving community.

“We look forward to supporting you in this entire process and on this note, I would like to tell you that we are opening the Cargo Terminal soon.

“For the operation of cargo, cargo transportation in the industry, we are planning to open up Port Harcourt and Abuja and we plan to take it to the next level.

“We are going to have cargo warehouses. We want to have a temperature-controlled compartment where we can have cargo that can afford to stay. There are temperature-controlled cargoes like trucks and other products,” he said.

Mr Remi Jibodu, Acting Chief Operating Officer, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd., said that the industry must innovate so as not to be left behind in the global community.

He said the global community had already gone into digital cargo and Nigeria should key into the trend, adding that digital cargo is basically a cargo marketplace.

He said that referrals grow the business and a lot had to be done on awareness for more people to embrace air cargo.

Also, Mr Musa Ibrahim of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said that the agency was ready to support and partner with the association to eradicate dangerous cargo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Police, members of the association and other stakeholders in the air cargo industry were present at the event. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Folasade Adeniran

By Itohan Abara-Laserian
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, on Wednesday directed Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend Dana Airline’s fleet operations over safety concerns.
This is contained in a memo signed by Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, in Lagos.
Keyamo said that the ministry’s attention had been drawn to recent incidents of both safety and financial viability of the airline’s operations.
“In light of these incidents and with the paramount priority being the safety and well-being of our citizens and travelers, the minister has directed that you immediately initiate the suspension of Dana Airline’s fleet until a comprehensive audit can be conducted.
“This audit should encompass all aspects of safety protocols, maintenance procedures and financial health to ensure full compliance with our aviation regulations.
“The recent incidents have underscored the urgency of this matter, and it is imperative that swift and decisive action be taken to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved.
“I trust in your expertise and diligence in carrying out this audit thoroughly and expeditiously.
“Please keep me informed of the progress and any significant findings throughout this process,” Keyamo said.
The minister praised NCAA for its dedication to upholding the highest standards of aviation safety.
NAN reports that a Dana MD aircraft, with registration number 5N BKI had, at about 9.45 a.m. on Tuesday, veered off the runway of the local wing of Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja.
All the 83 passengers and six crew members were, however, disembarked unhurt. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Chairman of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, has offered a free London Business Class return ticket to Pelumi Nubi, for driving from London to Lagos.

Onyema, hosting Nubi on Monday in Lagos, commended her for making Nigeria proud.

Recall that the 28-year-old Nigeria-British citizen and travel content creator did a solo drive from London to Lagos in 68 days.

She departed London on Jan. 31 and arrived in Nigeria through the Seme border on April 7.

“You made us proud at a time when the economy is down. You have made Nigeria proud.

“We are full of joy that you achieved this feat. That is why we said we should acknowledge you.

“We are really impressed with what you did. You are part of our national pride and we appreciate what you have done.

“For this, we have decided to offer you a free Business Class return ticket to London,” Onyema told the travel content creator.

Nubi, in return, expressed gratitude to the management of Air Peace for the offer and lauded the airline for its recently launched London service.

The travel blogger and curator of Oremi Travels has been getting accolades for being the first woman to achieve such feat, driving from the UK to Nigeria.

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented her with a car when he hosted her shortly after she arrived in Nigeria.

He also appointed her as state tourism ambassador.(NAN)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Oluwole Sogunle