Ground Handlers Stop Services to Max Air Over N1 Billion Debt

The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has stopped its services to Max Air. This is due to unpaid debts that are about N1 billion. This move has disrupted the airline’s domestic flights across Nigeria on Thursday.

This action caused major disruptions. It is one of the strongest steps taken against airlines that fail to pay their debts in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

AGHAN Chairman Olaniyi Adigun explained that they made the decision after Max Air did not show interest in talks to settle the debt. They tried many times to resolve the issue peacefully.

Adigun noted that while other airlines with debts have started discussions, Max Air has not responded.

"We took the decisive action on Max Air today (Thursday) because the airline refused to negotiate with us. While the other debtor airlines are negotiating with us, Max Air has blatantly refused to negotiate with the handling companies," Mr. Adigun said.

He added, "Some of the other debtor airlines are already on the verge of signing Memoranda of Understanding with our members on debt repayment. This action should serve as a signal to other airlines that ground handling companies can no longer continue to provide services without payment."

Adigun also mentioned that this suspension would not impact the airline’s Hajj operations. He noted that handling charges for these flights are paid directly by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.

Reports show that Max Air owes two major ground handling companies, Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc and the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc. This debt is estimated to be around N1 billion.

This situation arises after months of tension between ground handling companies and several airlines due to unpaid service fees.

AGHAN had previously warned that they would stop services to airlines that do not pay. They initially set May 1 as the date to start enforcement but postponed it for Workers’ Day and to keep peace in the industry.

Later, the association gave a new three-day ultimatum. They demanded that airlines settle their accounts and present clear repayment plans.

They warned that ongoing non-payment by airlines is causing serious financial strain on ground handling companies. This could threaten the future of essential aviation support services.

"The ground handling companies can no longer continue to shoulder the burden of providing services without payment," the association said.

As of now, Max Air has not released any official statement regarding the service withdrawal or responded to PREMIUM TIMES’ request for comments.