By Ngozi Onyeakusi — Dana Air and Arik Air have announced suspension of scheduled operations in response to the COVID-19 spreading across the country and the need to support the efforts of the government to stem the tide of further spread.

It would be recalled that two airlines, Air Peace and Aero Contractors, had earlier suspended their operations.

Spokesman for Dana, Mr. Kingsley Ezenwa said in a statement that the suspension will last for two weeks beginning from March 25.

“Recently, there has been a huge decline in the passenger figures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and considering the need to avoid piling unnecessary costs at this difficult time, we had to take this huge decision in the interest of the industry, staff , customers and our nation.

While we apologise and regret any inconvenience this decision may cause customers on affected flights, we wish to reassure our guests that we will be available on all our channels to ensure seamless updates and communication,” he said.

Similarly, Arik Air announced a temporarily suspension of all scheduled commercial flight operations effective Friday, March 27.

The chief executive officer of the airline, Capt. Roy Ilegbodu said in a statement that the management took the decision in order to mitigate the risk of the spread of COVID-19 to its valued customers and staff, and hopes to resume services as soon as feasible.

“The safety and well-being of our valued customers is paramount at this period of health emergency. We implore everyone to keep safe and abide by all directives issued by governmental authorities.”

“We sincerely regret any inconvenience this suspension may have caused our customers.

“Customers who have confirmed tickets have been advised that they could still use their tickets when the airline resumes flight operations. Such tickets could also be modified at no extra charge,” he said.

Ilegbodu added that the airline would be available to support government emergency, humanitarian and charter flight requests during the period of suspension of air transport operation.