Turkish Airlines has stated that its operations in Nigeria fully comply with the country’s labour laws and regulatory framework, following recent picketing actions by members of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) at the international airports in Lagos and Abuja.
In a statement reacting to the protest, the airline said while it respects the right of workers and unions to express their views, the actions were regrettable given that discussions with union representatives were already ongoing.
The airline noted that it expects all parties to address grievances through established legal and dialogue channels rather than through actions capable of disrupting airport operations.
According to the carrier, its activities in Nigeria are conducted in accordance with the country’s labour regulations and the applicable rules governing aviation operations.
Turkish Airlines also emphasised that the safety and security of its passengers, employees and operations remain its highest priority.
The airline said that, as demonstrated in the past, it would take necessary operational measures if operating conditions fail to meet required safety standards.
While reaffirming its commitment to continuing discussions with the relevant parties in order to reach a responsible and constructive resolution, the airline stressed the need for authorities and stakeholders to ensure a stable and secure operating environment.
It added that if such conditions cannot be guaranteed, the airline may be forced to consider reviewing or cancelling its flight schedule to Nigeria.
The development follows tensions between the airline and aviation labour unions, which recently staged picketing actions at the airports, affecting the airline’s operations and drawing attention to the ongoing labour dispute.
Read the full statement:
2026
Regarding recent protest actions carried out against Turkish Airlines operations in Lagos and Abuja Airports:
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 the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE).
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 these disruptive actions.
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. We remain committed to continuing discussions with relevant parties to reach a responsible and constructive resolution, while reiterating our expectation that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure a secure and stable operating environment, otherwise, we would like to inform you that we will consider the cancellation option in our flight schedule.
