Aviation ground handlers lift suspension on Max Air after debt negotiations, partial payment

Nigeria's aviation sector saw a swift resolution as the Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) lifted its suspension on services to Max Air. The halt, which lasted less than 24 hours, was enacted due to significant unpaid debts owed to handling companies.

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We have to lift the handling suspension on Max Air after it commenced negotiations with our members and paid a substantial amount of money out of its debts.

The decision to resume services followed constructive negotiations between AGHAN and Max Air. The airline has committed to addressing its financial obligations and has already made a substantial partial payment towards its outstanding debts. This move allowed AGHAN to reinstate the critical ground handling services, which include aircraft marshalling and baggage handling.

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We agree that the operating environment is tough for all operators, but we are not equally exempted from the challenge.

Despite the immediate resolution, AGHAN emphasized that the broader financial challenges facing ground handling companies persist. These companies grapple with rising operational costs, including equipment procurement and foreign exchange fluctuations, while awaiting payments from airlines. AGHAN stressed the interconnected nature of the aviation industry, warning that financial distress in any segment could compromise safety and service delivery across the ecosystem.

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The aviation industry is a chain and not about the airlines alone. Others too play major roles in the ecosystem and they need to survive.