The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has lifted the handling suspension imposed on Max Air following significant debt repayments and ongoing negotiations between the airline and ground handling companies.
The decision marks a major development in the dispute that recently led AGHAN to threaten a withdrawal of services to indebted airlines. NigerianFLIGHTDECK had reported that Max Air owed ground handlers more than N1 billion, prompting concerns across the aviation sector.
According to AGHAN, the suspension was lifted after the airline demonstrated a commitment to resolving the outstanding obligations. The association said Max Air had already paid a substantial portion of the debt and was actively engaging with its members to settle the balance.
In a joint statement issued on Friday, AGHAN Chairman, Olaniyi Adigun, and Vice Chairman, Bashir Ahmed, explained that the association considered the progress made by the airline sufficient to warrant the restoration of handling services.
They stated: “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 noted that the move was taken in good faith and reflected confidence in the ongoing discussions between the airline and service providers. However, AGHAN stressed that it would continue to pursue all outstanding debts owed to its members by airlines operating within the country.
AGHAN insists on payment discipline
AGHAN maintained that while airlines face significant operational challenges, ground handling companies are equally affected by the difficult economic environment. The association emphasised that handlers must continuously invest in equipment, infrastructure and workforce development to sustain safe operations.
“We agree that the operating environment is tough for all operators, but we are not equally exempted from the challenge,” the statement said.
“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 association expressed concern that despite repeated efforts to recover payments, the debt burden on ground handling companies has continued to increase. It warned that prolonged delays in settling obligations could threaten the sustainability of essential aviation support services.
According to AGHAN, the aviation ecosystem functions as an interconnected chain in which every stakeholder plays a critical role. It argued that the survival of airlines depends on the financial stability of service providers, including ground handlers.
“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,” the statement added.
The association further highlighted the importance of ground handling services to aviation safety and efficient airport operations. It noted that handlers are responsible for several critical functions that directly impact airline performance and passenger experience.
AGHAN warned that continued financial pressure on handling companies could eventually affect service quality, employee welfare and operational safety standards. The association said maintaining healthy financial relationships between airlines and service providers remains essential for the industry’s growth.
Meanwhile, the lifting of the suspension is expected to provide immediate relief for Max Air’s operations while negotiations continue. Industry stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether the airline fully settles its obligations and whether other indebted carriers follow a similar path.
The development also reinforces AGHAN’s position that while it remains open to dialogue, it will continue to protect the interests of its members and ensure that ground handling companies receive payments for services rendered.
