AGHAN Lifts Max Air Ban, Maintains Tough Stance On Airline Debts

Barely 24 hours after imposing a handling suspension on Max Air over outstanding debts, the Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has lifted the ban following the airline’s commitment to settle its obligations.

AGHAN said the decision was reached after Max Air commenced negotiations with ground handling companies and paid a substantial portion of the debts owed to its members.

In a statement jointly signed on Friday by AGHAN Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice Chairman, Bashir Ahmed, the association said the airline’s cooperation and part-payment of the outstanding debt informed the suspension’s withdrawal.

“We have to lift the handling suspension on Max Air after it commenced negotiations with our members and paid a substantial amount of money out of its debts,” the association stated.

Despite lifting the sanction, AGHAN stressed that it would continue to take a firm position against airlines that fail to meet their financial obligations to ground handling companies.

The association noted that while operators across the aviation sector face economic challenges, ground handling firms are equally affected by rising operational costs and cannot continue to absorb mounting debts.

“We agree that the operating environment is tough for all operators, but we are not equally exempted from the challenge. Our members buy equipment and upgrade their facilities regularly. They also seek foreign exchange for what they do. Yet, the debts are piling up,” the statement said.

AGHAN further emphasized that the aviation industry functions as an interconnected ecosystem in which every stakeholder plays a vital role.

“The aviation industry is a chain and not about the airlines alone. Others too play major roles in the ecosystem and they need to survive,” it added.

The association expressed concern over the growing debt burden owed to ground handlers despite repeated efforts to recover outstanding payments from airlines.

AGHAN also highlighted the critical role played by ground handling companies in ensuring aviation safety and seamless airport operations, warning that prolonged financial strain on handlers could adversely affect service delivery, safety standards and staff welfare.

The association reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of its members while ensuring that airlines meet their contractual obligations promptly.