There was chaos at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on Tuesday as flight operations were disrupted following the picketing of Air Peace by aviation unions over the alleged non-remittance of statutory charges and workers’ unionisation rights.

The action, led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), resulted in passengers being stranded as access to Air Peace’s departure terminals was reportedly blocked.

The unions accused the airline of owing about N15 billion in Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) due to aviation agencies, while also alleging that the carrier had prevented its employees from freely joining trade unions.

In a statement by its Spokesman, Efe Osifo-Whiskey, Air Peace said the industrial action had temporarily disrupted its operations in Lagos and Abuja after protesters barricaded entrances to its departure terminals.

The airline said the entrances to its departure terminals at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1, comprising the Alpha and Zulu terminals, and Terminal 2 in Lagos, as well as its terminal at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, had been blocked.

According to the airline, the blockade restricted access to the terminals and prevented scheduled flights from departing from the two airports.

“The blockade has restricted access to these terminals, preventing the departure of scheduled flights from Lagos and Abuja. Consequently, passengers scheduled to travel across our network have been significantly affected by the disruption to flight operations,” Osifo-Whiskey said.

“Air Peace sincerely apologises to all affected and stranded passengers for the disruption and inconvenience caused by circumstances beyond the airline’s control.

“Passengers scheduled to travel later today are being contacted and provided with relevant updates as the situation evolves.”

Air Peace added that it will continue to closely monitor developments and will provide further updates as necessary.

The airline said it appreciates the patience and understanding of its passengers as it navigates this situation.