The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has ordered its members to suspend all services to XEJET Airline due to an outstanding debt estimated at N300 million. This decision, announced on Monday, follows the airline's repeated failure to meet payment obligations despite previous arrangements made with ground handling companies.

Sources indicate that the suspension of services is already impacting XEJET's operations, with reports of passengers' luggage being transferred to another domestic carrier due to the lack of ground handling support. The AGHAN stated that the airline has not adhered to the payment schedules agreed upon in earlier negotiations, prompting the drastic measure.

In a joint statement from AGHAN President Olaniyi Adigun and Vice President Bashir Ahmed, the association expressed its frustration over XEJET's non-compliance. They noted that while other indigenous airlines have managed to meet their financial commitments, XEJET has consistently failed to follow through, despite numerous opportunities for resolution.

The association emphasized that the decision to halt services was necessary to safeguard the financial stability of its members, who are also grappling with rising operational costs. The statement highlighted the need for ground handling companies to enhance their equipment and staff welfare, which is jeopardized when airlines refuse to pay for services rendered.

"We decided to direct our members to withdraw services from XEJET Airlines because it has, over time, failed to meet up with its payment plans. Our members have made every effort to ensure that the airline complied, but its management has been recalcitrant," the statement read.

The suspension follows an earlier ultimatum issued by AGHAN, which required domestic airlines with outstanding debts to pay at least 75% of their dues within seven days or face service withdrawal. While some airlines responded positively by submitting payment plans, XEJET did not meet the terms, leading to the current suspension.

The AGHAN has warned that other airlines with similar debts may face the same fate if they do not comply with payment arrangements. The association remains firm in its stance, stating that services will continue to be withheld from XEJET until the airline addresses its financial obligations or reaches a satisfactory agreement with the ground handling companies.

Efforts to obtain a response from XEJET regarding the situation have been unsuccessful, as calls and messages to the airline's spokesperson, Juliet Atikpekpe, have gone unanswered.