Nosa Aituamen
Some domestic airlines in the country have suspended flight operations nationwide due to the ongoing strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
According to the airlines, the decision comes as NiMet’s industrial action has disrupted the transmission of critical weather reports, particularly the QNH, which are essential for safe flight operations, especially during landing procedures.
They emphasized in their various statements that pilots cannot land in any airport without receiving the QNH report from the control tower, which is generated by NiMet.
Given the current season marked by frequent rainfall, thunderstorms, and unpredictable weather patterns, the airlines has expressed grave concern over the risks of operating flights without these mandatory safety updates.
“As a safety-conscious airline, we cannot take the risk of proceeding with flight operations without the QNH report from NiMet, which is a non-negotiable requirement for safe landings,” the airlines stated.
“This is a critical period with heightened weather hazards, and the safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority.”
The suspension of flight operations took immediate effect yesterday evening and the airlines say, this will remain in force until the NiMet strike is resolved and full meteorological services are restored nationwide.
They have urged affected passengers to remain patient and assured them that updates regarding flight rescheduling and further instructions will be communicated via official channels.
The airlines also appealed directly to the striking workforce of NiMet to consider the far-reaching implications of the ongoing disruption and to engage in meaningful dialogue with the government toward an amicable resolution, in the interest of national safety and continuity in the aviation sector.