By Isaac Mission
Flight operations have been disrupted across parts of Nigeria following industrial action by aviation unions, with Air Peace, Enugu Air and United Nigeria Airlines announcing temporary suspensions and schedule changes.
The development followed the blockade of some airport terminals in Lagos and Abuja, leaving passengers unable to access departure areas and forcing airlines to adjust their operations.
Air Peace suspends affected operations
Air Peace said the industrial action by aviation unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), resulted in restricted access to terminals at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
According to the airline, the restrictions prevented scheduled flights from departing from the affected airports.
The airline apologised to passengers whose journeys were disrupted and said travellers with upcoming flights would receive updates as the situation develops.
United Nigeria Airlines pauses flights
United Nigeria Airlines also announced a temporary suspension of its flight services, citing the ongoing industrial action.
The airline explained that the decision was made to protect passengers and crew members while awaiting a return to normal operations.
Passengers affected by the disruption are expected to receive information concerning revised schedules and available travel arrangements.
Enugu Air announces schedule changes
Enugu Air disclosed that its operations at the Abuja airport had also been affected after union workers restricted access to the terminal.
The airline warned that some of its flights could be rescheduled until the situation is resolved.
Passengers were advised to check their emails, SMS messages and the airline's official social media platforms for updates before heading to the airport.
The airline also encouraged affected travellers to contact its customer service team for rebooking and other enquiries.
Dispute over ticket charges and workers' welfare
The industrial action is reportedly connected to concerns raised by aviation unions over the remittance of the 5% Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) and other welfare-related matters.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had appealed to the unions to suspend the action while efforts were made to resolve the outstanding issues.
The disruption is expected to continue affecting domestic air travel until normal access to the affected airport terminals is restored.
The three airlines said they would work towards resuming normal flight operations once the industrial situation is resolved.
