Aviation Unions Threaten Picketing Over Ticket Charges

Nigeria's aviation sector is facing potential industrial action as two major unions, the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria and the National Union of Air Transport Employees, announced plans to begin picketing airlines accused of withholding billions of naira in statutory Ticket Sales Charges. This announcement follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued on August 3, 2026, after a previous 14-day notice yielded no response.

The unions, represented by General Secretary Frances Akinjole and Deputy General Secretary Odinaka Igbokwe, allege that airlines are collecting these charges from passengers on behalf of government aviation agencies but failing to remit them as required by law. The Airline Operators of Nigeria responded, stating they have no transactional relationship with the unions and warned of dire consequences if picketing occurs.

The unions argue that the airlines' refusal to remit funds jeopardizes aviation safety and the welfare of industry workers, emphasizing that all dialogue avenues have been exhausted.