Leaders of aviation workers’ union have expressed different views on
Aero Contractors’ decision to suspend scheduled flight oeprations from September 1.
Isaac Balami, president, National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, applauded the decision.
Mr. Balami, while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN),
said the decision of the airline was necessary in order not to destroy
the safety records it had maintained over the years.
He said it was not reasonable to continue to fly when safety could
not be guaranteed, adding that the airline had not carried out proper
checks and maintenance because of lack of funds.
According to him, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has
been providing lifeline for the airline but has since stopped putting
in money.
“Due to the shortage of foreign exchange, about six or seven Aero
aircraft have not undergone C-check for sometime now which is a serious
safety issue.
“There is also the issue of high cost of aviation fuel which has also contributed to the non-profitability of operation.
As a professional in the industry, I believe that safety comes first,” he said.
On the other hand, Banjamin Okewu, president, Air Transport Senior
Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSAN), said the management of Aero did
not carry its members along before taking the decision.
Mr. Okewu said that the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment had
recently asked them to go into negotiation with the airline on the
matter.
He said the airline unilaterally took the decision to suspend its operation without consulting the union.
According to him, it is not possible to take such decision without engaging their members.
“We have asked our people to come to work tomorrow while we meet to decide on what to do,” he said.
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