By Our Correspondent
National News – Nigeria’s aviation sector is facing a major financial crisis as domestic airlines reported losses exceeding N150bn within the last two months, while ground handling companies are threatening to suspend services over unpaid debts estimated at N9bn.
The development has raised fresh concerns about possible disruptions to flight operations nationwide and the broader impact on the country’s fragile economy.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) disclosed the alarming losses on Thursday, warning that several operators are nearing collapse due to mounting operational costs and financial pressure.
Speaking on behalf of the operators, board member Roland Iyayi said airlines are struggling to stay afloat, stressing that the industry is at a critical point.
According to Iyayi, the losses stem from rising costs, debt burdens, and increasing financial strain across the aviation sector.
He warned that any further action by ground handling companies could worsen the crisis and threaten the survival of domestic carriers.
Ground handling firms, under the Aviation Ground Handling Association of Nigeria, issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding payment of outstanding debts.
Chairman Olaniyi Adigun confirmed the association is considering further action, including possible service withdrawal, if airlines fail to settle the debts within the stipulated period.
The dispute is centered on unpaid service charges owed by airlines to ground handling companies.
These firms provide critical airport support services necessary for safe flight operations, making their potential withdrawal a serious threat to air transport activities.
Industry stakeholders are urging dialogue as the only practical solution.
Aviation experts warn that if airlines suspend operations, passengers, businesses, and the national economy could face severe consequences, including flight cancellations, economic losses, and job cuts.
The crisis highlights the urgent need for intervention by relevant authorities to stabilise Nigeria’s aviation industry and prevent a total operational shutdown.
