AVIATION UNIONS ISSUE 14-DAY ULTIMATUM TO AIRLINES OVER 5% TSC REMITTANCE

Major aviation unions have issued a 14-day ultimatum to domestic airlines, demanding the immediate remittance of outstanding 5% Ticket Sales Charges (TSC) owed to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The unions, representing various workers in the sector, expressed frustration over the alleged accumulation of unpaid TSC, which is statutorily deducted from ticket sales to fund regulatory and safety oversight functions. They warned that failure to comply within the deadline could lead to industrial action, potentially disrupting flight operations across the country.

Stakeholders emphasised that the TSC is critical for maintaining safety standards, infrastructure development, and overall sector efficiency. Unions argued that non-remittance undermines the authority’s ability to perform its statutory duties and affects workers’ welfare indirectly.

Airline operators have yet to issue a formal response, but industry sources suggest ongoing financial pressures, including high operational costs and forex challenges, may be contributing to the delays.

The NCAA is expected to engage both parties to avert any crisis. Aviation experts warned that any disruption could further strain the sector, which is still recovering from previous challenges.

The ultimatum highlights persistent issues of compliance and cash flow in Nigeria’s aviation industry, with stakeholders calling for stronger regulatory enforcement and dialogue to ensure stability.