Few hours ago we reported the news that Arik Air operations were grounded.
Arik Airline has now issued a statement giving reasons for the temporary disruption to its operations.
The statement issued by its spokesman, Ola Adebanji, said it was due to insurance renewal issues.
He said, “Arik Air, West and Central Africa’s largest airline has alerted all air travellers of a temporary disruption to its operations, pending approval of aircraft documentation related to insurance renewal.
“At the present time, all flights of the airline have been cancelled for Tuesday, September 13, 2016 and the airline has stated that it would be getting in touch with passengers to provide an update on rescheduling of their flights.
“This situation is likely to continue for the next few days until such time that NAICOM (National Insurance Commission) approves a waiver on a priority basis for the new insurance company to renew the policy.
“All customers are kindly advised to contact Arik Air’s Call Centre (01-2799999), Airport or City ticket offices or visit the airline’s Website (www.arikair.com) for further updates. Passengers are also advised to check with the airline regarding the status of their flights before proceeding to the airport.
“Arik Air’s Group CEO, Dr. Michael Arumemi-Ikhide, wishes to advise and assure the public, its customers, stakeholders and partners that we are fully committed to returning to our normal operations and minimize any unfortunate inconvenience to our passengers. Where flights have been cancelled, the airline will notify passengers through SMS and in such cases, passengers will be accommodated on first available alternative flight as soon as normal flight operations resume.
“The Group CEO has apologised and appealed (on behalf of the airline) for the understanding of passengers while it works diligently to resume normal operations at the earliest.”
Arik Air now becomes the third airline to shut down flight operations in Nigeria after the likes of Aero Contractors and First Nation.
Dolapo is a writer and journalist who works with YNaija. He has interests in Christianity, politics and sports.
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