OPERATIONS of Turkish Airlines were disrupted on Tuesday after aviation workers under the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) picketed the airline at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, protesting the alleged dismissal of seven union members.
News Point Nigeria reports that the protest led to the temporary grounding of the airline’s activities at the Lagos airport and left hundreds of passengers stranded as workers blocked operations in a dramatic escalation of a labour dispute.
The development triggered tension at one of Nigeria’s busiest airports, forcing passengers scheduled to travel on the airline to abandon their plans and return home.
The workers’ action was organised by NUATE, which accused the airline of unfairly dismissing seven of its members.
Union members stormed the airport early on Tuesday, preventing Turkish Airlines’ staff and passengers from accessing operational areas.
The picketing exercise effectively halted the airline’s services at the Lagos airport, disrupting flight schedules and creating uncertainty for travellers.
Airport sources said the protest caused significant delays and confusion as affected passengers scrambled for alternative travel arrangements.
Reacting to the development, Turkish Airlines acknowledged the workers’ concerns but described the protest and picketing action as regrettable.
In a statement made available to journalists, the airline said it respects the rights of workers and labour unions to express their grievances but stressed that the ongoing demonstration could undermine efforts already underway to resolve the dispute.
“While we respect the right of workers and unions to express their views, such actions are regrettable given the ongoing dialogue already taking place with representatives of NUATE,” the airline said.
The company disclosed that discussions had already begun with union representatives aimed at resolving the disagreement.
Turkish Airlines also emphasised that its operations in Nigeria are conducted in strict compliance with labour laws and the regulatory framework governing the aviation sector.
According to the airline, it remains committed to maintaining a safe and lawful working environment for its employees.
“Turkish Airlines operates in full compliance with Nigerian labour laws and the applicable regulatory framework. We expect all stakeholders to pursue their concerns through established legal and dialogue channels rather than such disruptive actions,” the statement noted.
The airline further stressed that the safety and security of its passengers, staff and operations remain its highest priority.
It explained that operational decisions are always guided by safety considerations, adding that the airline would not hesitate to take necessary measures if safety standards are threatened.
“The safety and security of our passengers, employees, and operations remain our top priority. As demonstrated in the past, should operational conditions fail to meet the required safety standards, Turkish Airlines will take the necessary operational measures,” the company stated.
Despite the ongoing tensions, Turkish Airlines reiterated its willingness to continue engaging with the union and other stakeholders to find a peaceful resolution.
However, the airline warned that prolonged disruptions could affect its flight schedule.
“We remain committed to continuing discussions with relevant parties to reach a responsible and constructive resolution,” the statement added.
The airline further cautioned that if the situation continues to disrupt operations or compromise safety, it may consider cancelling some flights.
“We reiterate our expectation that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure a secure and stable operating environment; otherwise, we may consider the cancellation option in our flight schedule,” the airline said.