Aviation unions threaten to picket airlines over unremitted charges

Nigeria's aviation sector faces potential industrial action as two major unions prepare to picket airlines accused of withholding billions of naira in statutory Ticket Sales Charges (TSC). The threat looms after a seven-day ultimatum, issued on August 3, 2026, expired without the airlines remitting the funds.

The unions, Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), stated that airlines have collected these levies from passengers on behalf of government aviation agencies but have failed to remit them. This persistent refusal, they argue, threatens the sustainability of critical aviation functions, including safety oversight, air navigation, accident investigation, and worker welfare.

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The expiration of the seven-day ultimatum, coming after the earlier 14-day notice, has shown that these airlines are deliberately refusing to do what is right. They collected this money from passengers on behalf of government aviation agencies, yet they have chosen to withhold it despite repeated appeals.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has responded by stating they have no transactional relationship with the unions and warned that any picketing would have severe consequences. The AON described the unions' threats as "misinformed" but acknowledged the need to address passenger concerns.

According to the unions, all avenues for dialogue have been exhausted. They maintain that the issue transcends mere financial obligations, directly impacting aviation safety and the well-being of industry workers. The TSC funds are essential for the operations of agencies like the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, and others vital to the country's aviation industry.

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It has become crystal clear that these airlines have decided to siphon funds meant for the smooth running of Nigeria’s aviation industry to the detriment of our coll