Air Peace and United Nigeria report major financial losses after union protest
Two major Nigerian airlines, Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines, have reported significant financial losses following a large-scale protest by aviation workers’ unions. The disruption led to the cancellation or delay of nearly 100 flights, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The unions targeted Air Peace over alleged non-payment of statutory charges and issues related to union membership. Both airlines have disputed the unions’ claims and called for government intervention.
TLDR
- Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines suffered combined losses estimated at about N3bn due to flight disruptions caused by union protests.
- The unions accused Air Peace of owing the largest share of the five per cent Ticket Sales Charge and claimed airlines were making union membership difficult for employees.
- Air Peace denied the allegations, describing the protest as unlawful and violent, and reported that some employees were physically assaulted.
- The disruption affected about 70 Air Peace flights and over 30 United Nigeria Airlines flights, with thousands of passengers impacted.
- Both airlines called for an independent investigation, while the unions insisted their actions were justified and promised a detailed response later.
