By ITOHAN ABARA-LASERIAN

The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) on Friday lifted its suspension on Max Air’s ground handling services.

The decision followed renewed negotiations and a partial settlement of outstanding debts by the airline.

AGHAN announced the development in a joint statement signed by AGHAN Chairman, Mr Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice Chairman, Mr Bashir Ahmed.

The association said Max Air had engaged constructively with member companies and paid a substantial amount owed.

Adigun stated that the airline’s actions showed commitment toward resolving the debt dispute.

“We have to lift the handling suspension on Max Air after it commenced negotiations with our members,” he said.

He added that the airline had paid a substantial amount from its outstanding obligations.

Adigun, however, said AGHAN remained committed to ensuring airlines settled their debts.

He noted that ground handling companies were also operating under challenging conditions.

The AGHAN chairman expressed concern over the rising debts owed by airlines.

He said repeated efforts by handlers to recover payments had not yielded enough results.

Adigun explained that handlers continually invested in equipment, facilities, and foreign exchange-dependent operations.

He stressed that timely payment of service charges was essential for their survival.

“We agree that the operating environment is tough for all operators.

“But we are not equally exempted from the challenge confronting the industry.

“Our members buy equipment and upgrade facilities regularly while seeking foreign exchange.

“Yet, the debts are piling up and threatening sustainability,” he said.

Adigun emphasised that aviation remained a collective industry involving several stakeholders.

He said: “The aviation industry is a chain and not about airlines alone. Others also play major roles in the ecosystem and they need to survive.”

He warned that prolonged financial pressure could affect service delivery and operational efficiency, adding that it could also impact staff welfare and aviation safety.

Adigun reaffirmed the critical role of handlers in maintaining smooth airport operations nationwide. (NAN)