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By Chinelo Obogo
The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has suspended ground handling services to Max Air over an alleged debt estimated at nearly ₦1 billion.
AGHAN enforced the action on Thursday after accusing the airline of failing to meet its financial obligations. Speaking on the development, AGHAN Chairman, Mr. Olaniyi Adigun, said the decision became necessary after Max Air allegedly refused to engage in discussions aimed at reconciling and settling its outstanding indebtedness.
According to him, several other airlines with outstanding debts are currently negotiating repayment arrangements with handling companies. However, he said Max Air has failed to respond positively despite repeated efforts to resolve the issue.
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He said: “We took the decisive action on Max Air today (Thursday) because the airline refused to negotiate with us. While the other debtor airlines are negotiating with us, Max Air has blatantly refused to negotiate with the handling companies. Some of the other debtor airlines are already on the verge of signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with our members on debt repayment. This action should serve as a signal to other airlines that ground handling companies can no longer continue to provide services without payment.”
However, Adigun said Max Air’s ongoing hajj operations would continue without interruption as payments for handling services related to pilgrimage flights are made directly by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Earlier in the year, the association announced plans to commence enforcement actions on May 1, 2026 on debtor airlines but the move was suspended to coincide with Workers’ Day celebrations and to maintain industrial harmony within the aviation sector. Again, AGHAN issued a fresh three-day ultimatum to affected airlines, demanding immediate account reconciliation and clear repayment plans.
