The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) temporarily suspended essential services to Max Air over an estimated (text{N}1) billion debt. However, after the airline committed to a payment plan, AGHAN lifted the suspension.
Why the suspension happened.
- The Debt: AGHAN stated Max Air owed ground handling firms—like SAHCO and NAHCO—roughly (N1) billion.
- Lack of Cooperation: AGHAN leadership noted that while other debtor airlines were actively negotiating and signing repayment plans, Max Air was unresponsive, prompting the immediate withdrawal of services.
- Exemptions: The temporary suspension applied to regular domestic flights, but Hajj flights were excluded from the ban.
The resolution.
- Negotiations: Barely 24 hours after implementing the ban, AGHAN lifted it because the airline began cooperating and entered into formal negotiations.
- Payment: Max Air successfully paid a “substantial amount” of the outstanding debt to get the services restored.
- Broader Industry Context: AGHAN maintains a tough stance on mounting airline debts, which have been exacerbated by a difficult operating economy, inflation, and foreign exchange challenges.
If you’re interested, I can also provide the details on other airlines currently facing regulatory suspension by the NCAA or outline the economic challenges affecting the Nigerian aviation ecosystem. Let me know what you’d like to explore next!
