Arik, Aero, Others Suspend Flight Operations

Airlines in the country have responded to the threat of coronavirus by suspending flight operations across the county.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority had announced restriction of entry in and out of the country and subsequently shut down the two major international airports in the country: Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja,

The managements of the airlines announced the suspension of operations on Wednesday in seperate statements.

The operators said the actions followed due consultations and approval, in accordance with the federal government directive to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Arik disclosed in a statement that it would suspend all scheduled flights from Friday 27 March till further notice, as a measure to safeguard Nigerians during this period of the pandemic.

Arik also said customers could still use their ticket at resumption of operations.

Aero Contractors Company of Nigeria Ltd. said that it was suspending flights for two weeks effective 26 March, adding that the development followed Lagos State government directive prohibiting gathering of more than 20.

Maxair Ltd. said in a separate notice that it would support all efforts to contain the virus, adding that the suspension of its flight would take effect from 27 March to 12 April, 2020.

Similarly, Azman Air Service Ltd. explained its decision was in line with government policies on the virus, adding that it would effect the suspension on 27 March and end at 11 April, saying also that it regreted the inconvenience it would cause.