Why The Oldest Airline In Nigeria Is Set to Suspend Operations

By Tolulope Oke

British Airways (BA), the oldest airline operating in Nigeria for about 85 years is set to suspend its operations over issues of trapped funds. 

This comes on the heels of Emirates Airlines announcing its suspension of all its flights to and from Nigeria effective from the 1st of  September.

The Eagles reported that Emirates said in a statement that it had explored every option to address its ongoing issues with remitting money from Nigeria and had made significant efforts to start a conversation with the appropriate authorities in hopes of prompting their assistance in coming up with a workable solution. Regrettably, though, there had been no progress.

In light of this, the BA also stated that while it is dedicated to the Nigerian market, the current action is necessary to alleviate the situation in a statement written by NANTA management to members.

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“The National Executive Council of NANTA just concluded a business meeting with British Airways and British Airways conveys assurance that it remains committed to servicing the needs of travel agencies in Nigeria.

“As members may be aware that British Airways closed inventory this morning, please be informed that this inventory closure is a necessary action taken by British Airways to mitigate increase of their trapped funds.

“However, British Airways provides reassurance that it is still flying in and out of Nigeria and is currently seeking earnest solutions to address the demands of its customers.

“Details on how existing tickets will be serviced will be communicated soon”.