The management of Arik Airline led by Capt. Roy Ilegbodu has announced the resumption of flight operations to Maiduguri, Borno State via Abuja from Tuesday, May 9, 2017.
According to a statement made available to our correspondent, this development is unconnected with the fact that the airline now has increased number of serviceable aircraft in its fleet. From the few that were available when AMCON took over early in February, we gathered that the airline now has eight aircraft and is working on getting additional 6, which will increase the number on their fleet to 14 aircraft before June this year.
Announcing the resumption in a press statement in Lagos, Arik Air said flights to Maiduguri will operate thrice weekly on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with the possibility of increasing the frequency in the coming weeks.
Though the flight will operate en-route Abuja, the statement added that passengers from other Arik Air network can conveniently connect to Abuja for their onward journey to Maiduguri. Passengers, the stamen explained can book tickets online at www.arikair.com for affordable fares or visit any Arik Air City/Airport Ticket Office for reservations.
It would be recalled that Arik Air suspended operations to Maiduguri in December 2013 due to security reasons. The security situation in the region has since improved, necessitating the resumption of flight operations to Maiduguri International Airport.
Speaking on the recommencement of flights to Maiduguri, Arik Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Captain Roy Ilegbodu said: “As a major carrier in Nigeria, we owe it a duty to serve the interest of our esteemed customers who have been yearning for our return to Maiduguri. We once again pledge our commitment to high safety standards, on-time departure and quality customer service as we return to this route.”
