Airlines threaten nationwide shutdown over union disruptions
Nigerian domestic airlines have threatened a nationwide shutdown if aviation unions disrupt any member’s operations again, following the picketing of Air P Read More: https://punchng.com/airlines-threaten-nationwide-shutdown-over-union-disruptions/
Nigeria's domestic airlines have issued a stern warning that they may shut down nationwide operations if unions continue to disrupt their businesses. This threat came after unions blocked access to Air Peace departure terminals, check-in counters, offices and workstations at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminals 1 and 2 in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on August 11, 2026.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) condemned the "violent disruptive action," describing it as a serious security concern that exposed weaknesses in airport security arrangements. The airports were left "to a screeching halt," causing immediate consequences for passengers, airline workers and airport security. Air Peace alone had more than 70 flights affected, with estimated losses exceeding N2bn, while more than 30 United Nigeria Airlines flights impacted around 13,000 passengers.
The airlines blamed a combination of factors, including high jet fuel prices and unreliable supply, as well as inefficient air traffic flow and inadequate airport infrastructure, for the disruptions and cancellations. They also criticized the unions for stopping workers from unionising and accused them of undermining business operations.
An industry expert expressed concern over the disruptive role of unionism in the aviation sector, highlighting a case where unions defied a court order and blocked entrances at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two.
Written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
