Tensions between the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and aviation labor unions have intensified regarding the five percent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC). Unions have warned they may halt flight operations at any time, ignoring previous warnings from domestic airlines that any disruption would carry serious consequences. The TSC is a mandatory fee airlines collect from travelers on behalf of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.
Labor organizations, including ATSSSAN and NUATE, argue that missing remittances are starving critical agencies like NAMA, NSIB, and NiMet of necessary operational funding. After two separate ultimatums expired, union officials including Frances Akinjole and Odinaka Igbokwe officially notified law enforcement agencies and airline operators that they intend to suspend services for carriers failing to remit these funds.
The unions labeled the withholding of these payments a threat to industry safety and public welfare. In response, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo stated that the federal government is actively communicating with both sides to prevent any flight cancellations. Keyamo confirmed he is coordinating these efforts while traveling abroad.
