AON Backs State Airlines, Warns Against Regulatory Breaches
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), the umbrella body representing domestic airline operators, has expressed support for the establishment and operation of state-owned airlines in the country, provided they fully adhere to existing regulatory frameworks. In a recent statement, AON emphasized that the entry of government-backed carriers into the aviation sector is not inherently problematic. However, the association stressed the critical need for all operators—public or private—to obtain the necessary Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and comply with all safety, operational, and financial standards. AON highlighted that uniform enforcement ent of rules is essential to maintaining a level playing field and preserving public confidence in Nigeria's aviation industry. "State-owned airlines are welcome, but they must meet the same rigorous requirements as private operators," an AON representative noted. "Failure by...