Domestic airlines resume in-flight refreshments, three airports set for int’l flights

Catering services suspended after the outbreak of the COVID-19 are to resume on domestic flights with immediate effect.

Aviation Minister, Senator Hadi Sirika, disclosed this at the weekly media briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 on Monday.

He said the decision was taken in consideration of the businesses involved in the provision of in-flight refreshments that had been adversely affected by the suspension.

He however said that modalities and protocols for the resumption of the services would be rolled out by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority in line with international practices.

Sirika also announced plans to resume international flight operations at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, the Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu and the Port Harcourt International Airport.

He said members of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 would be visiting the airports for simulation to ascertain their readiness for international operations.

He also said a technical working group comprising agencies involved in the facilitation of passengers had been set up to ensure compliance with all standards required for seamless operations at the airports earmarked for resumption of international flights.

Sirika also spoke on the suspension of Emirates Airlines operations in Nigeria, saying discussions had commenced to resolve the issues involved.

He, however, restated the country’s position on the impropriety of the extra COVID-19 tests the airline was demanding of Nigerian travellers.