Green Africa Grounds All Flights Amid Sudden Aircraft Lessor Dispute

Green Africa has announced the temporary suspension of all flight operations due to an issue with its aircraft lessor. The airline confirmed that flights will remain grounded until after the Eid al-Fitr holidays, though it did not provide specific details on the nature of the issue.

The airline, which operates as a low-cost carrier in Nigeria, apologized to passengers for the disruption and assured them that it is working to resolve the situation as quickly as possible. Affected customers have been advised to check for updates on the airline’s official channels regarding their bookings and alternative arrangements.

The suspension of operations comes as a setback for the airline, which has been positioning itself as a key player in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Green Africa began commercial operations in 2021 and has since focused on providing affordable air travel options within the country. However, like many other airlines, it has faced challenges ranging from regulatory hurdles to economic pressures affecting the aviation industry.

Industry analysts note that aircraft leasing agreements are critical to the operations of many airlines, particularly newer carriers that rely on leased aircraft rather than owning their fleets. Any disruptions in these agreements can have significant consequences, including flight cancellations and financial strain. While Green Africa has not disclosed the exact problem with its lessor, similar issues in the past have stemmed from payment disputes, contractual disagreements, or regulatory compliance matters.

Passengers affected by the suspension have expressed frustration, especially as the temporary halt coincides with the Eid al-Fitr holiday period, a time of increased travel demand. Many had booked flights in advance to visit family and attend celebrations, and they now face uncertainty about their travel plans. Some customers have taken to social media to seek clarifications and request refunds or rescheduling options.

Green Africa has assured travelers that it is actively working on resolving the matter and hopes to resume operations soon after the holidays. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and operational efficiency, stating that the decision to ground flights was necessary to ensure compliance with all regulatory and contractual obligations.

This development highlights broader challenges within Nigeria’s aviation industry, where airlines often grapple with operational difficulties linked to currency fluctuations, high maintenance costs, and fuel price volatility. Leasing aircraft is a common practice, but it comes with risks that can lead to unexpected disruptions.

For now, Green Africa customers will have to wait for further updates from the airline regarding when flights will resume. The company has encouraged affected passengers to reach out through official communication channels for assistance.