02-Sep-2010 8:41 AM

Arik Air expresses concern over NAMA’s directive

Direct News Source

31-Aug-2010 Arik Air has expressed concern over the plan by the Nigerian Airspace management Agency (NAMA) to start charging Navigational Charges on Pay-As-You-Go basis for domestic flights.

The airline's Deputy Executive Vice President, Mr. Chris Ndulue said Arik Air has been trying its best to develop the aviation industry in Nigeria but it is encountering opposition from people who are out to destroy the industry.

Mr. Ndulue said: "The issue of domestic Terminal Navigational Charges has been a source of disagreement in the past and successive Aviation Ministers have done well by asking NAMA to leave the matter, but the issue still lingers."

He said Arik Air stands by the decision of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) on the issue. AON had resolved at a meeting on Tuesday that no Nigerian airline will comply with the directive.

"We therefore apologise to our guests who may b e affected should NAMA refuse to grant our aircraft start-up on Wednesday as threatened by the agency. It is important to remain resolute on the issue of domestic navigational charges of whatever description, since the issue is still pending in the Supreme Court."