Aero Contractors halts operations due to economic crisis

Nigeria's oldest airline, Aero Contractors, has temporarily suspended operations due to the economic crisis.

According to The PUNCH, airlines in Nigeria are lamenting the skyrocketing price and shortage of jet fuel, Jet A1, with many threatening to shut down.

In the statement announcing the suspension, the airline said the suspension of operations would take effect on July 20.

However, the statement said the temporary cessation of operations "in no way affects the maintenance activities of the Approved Maintenance Organization aka AeroMRO, the Approved Training Organization aka Aero Training School, helicopter and charter services."

"This decision was carefully considered and made as most of our aircraft are currently undergoing maintenance, resulting in our inability to provide a seamless and efficient service to our valued customers."

"We are working to return these aircraft to service over the next few weeks so we can continue to provide our passengers with the safe, efficient and reliable services that Aero Contractors are known for, which is the hallmark of the Aero Contractors Company of Nig." Ltd.

“The past few months have been very challenging for the airline industry and airline operators in particular. With the high maintenance costs, skyrocketing fuel prices, inflation and shortage of foreign exchange leading to high exchange rates. These are among the main components of flight operations.

"In the meantime, we are working tirelessly to resume service as soon as possible and reassure our valued customers and stakeholders of our determination that our brief absence will not create a major gap in the market as we coordinate with our business partner to ensure ticket holders do not experience too much discomfort.

“As members of the Spring Alliance (a commercial alliance of member airlines that provide operational support to one another), we are working with our partner airlines to minimize the impact on our valued customers.

“Our customer service team will work to help affected valued customers achieve their goals.

"We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused to our valued customers and promise to resume service as soon as possible. "We thank you in advance for your cooperation and understanding at this time."

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