Flight Disruption Fears as Ground Handlers Threaten to Suspend Services to Two Airlines

The Association of Ground Handling Companies of Nigeria (AGHAN) has directed its members to issue seven-day suspension notices to two major domestic airlines over prolonged outstanding debts, raising concerns about potential disruptions to flight operations.

AGHAN announced the directive in a statement issued by its Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice-Chairman, Ahmed Bashir Gulmah, following an executive meeting on Friday, September 4, 2026, where members expressed deep concern over the significant indebtedness of some domestic carriers.

Ground handling companies provide critical services to airlines, including aircraft turnaround support and other airport-related operational services. The suspension of such services to major carriers could therefore severely impact their ability to maintain normal flight schedules.

The association disclosed that the outstanding obligations of the two unnamed airlines collectively account for more than 70 percent of the total debt owed to ground handling service providers. While the two airlines were not named, AGHAN recently withdrew its services from Max Air, and other major airlines are also indebted to the handlers.

Under the terms of the seven-day notices, the affected airlines are required to pay 75 percent of their outstanding debts within the notice period, with the remaining 25 percent to be settled through a mutually agreed structured repayment plan within 90 days.

AGHAN noted that the persistent failure of some airlines to meet their financial obligations has placed considerable pressure on ground handling companies, affecting their ability to meet obligations to employees, suppliers, statutory stakeholders, lenders, and shareholders. The association added that the financial strain could impact the substantial investments required to maintain safe and efficient ground handling operations.

The association urged the affected airlines to use the seven-day notice period to engage with their respective ground handling companies and fulfill the payment requirements to avert a suspension of services.

AGHAN stressed that the decision was not intended to undermine domestic airline operations, but rather to ensure commercial sustainability across the aviation value chain.

“AGHAN recognises the critical role of domestic airlines in Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem and remains committed to resolving outstanding financial obligations through constructive engagement and mutually acceptable arrangements,” the association said, adding that the sustainability of ground handling operations requires a fair and responsible approach to commercial obligations across the industry.

The association reaffirmed its alignment with the five-point agenda of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development and pledged continued support for initiatives promoting a safe, efficient, commercially sustainable, and globally competitive Nigerian aviation industry. It also committed to working with domestic and international airlines, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), airport authorities, and other stakeholders to improve safety, operational efficiency, and service delivery.

Despite the financial difficulties confronting the sector, AGHAN said its members would continue investing in personnel, ground support equipment, technology, training, safety systems, and quality assurance processes. The association expressed hope that the affected airlines would take advantage of the seven-day window to resolve their financial obligations and prevent any disruption to ground handling services.