Aviation workers protest against welfare, systemic rot nationwide

• Crashed helicopter has valid clearance, insurance, says operator

A coalition of aviation workers’ unions will today hold a nationwide protest on welfare issues and alleged rot in the system.

The coalition made up of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP), will hold peaceful rallies as part of measures to draw attention to their plight.

A circular made available to The Guardian, yesterday, stated that the August 21, 2020 decision to embark on rallies became necessary following the government’s non-commitment to addressing the issues.

In another development, the management of Quorum Aviation Limited and operator of the crashed helicopter, yesterday, denied claims that the ill-fated aircraft has no valid clearance to operate or insurance cover.

The company said that while its safety records were not in doubt, it was ideal for the public to await the outcome of an investigation by the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB).

The management, headed by Lukman Lawal, said it was compelled to make few clarifications regarding the unfortunate helicopter accident.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Quorum Aviation Limited is a responsible corporate entity that adheres to and complies with all the rules and regulations pertaining to the aviation industry as laid out in the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (NCAR).

“The company has all the requisite certificates and approvals obtained through a very rigorous process, including inter alia an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), Certificate of Airworthiness (COA), and Insurance. All our certificates and approvals are current and valid as issued by the authorities following due process.

“During this difficult time, we crave the indulgence of the media to refrain from conjecture and speculation, and to choose instead to await the outcome of the AIB investigation into the cause of the mishap,” the statement read in part.