Arik Air has laid off a number of its pilots for alleged gross acts of indiscipline.
According to a statement by the carrier, the affected pilots were fired for embarking on a strike without recourse to procedures.
The airline said the pilots did not serve a notice for the strike in accordance with labour laws.
The statement reads: “They neither submitted any issue of dispute to the National Association of Airline Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), their umbrella union, nor did they submit any statement of demands to the management of the company.”
The statement further added that there was no ongoing discussions between the management and the pilots on any unresolved labour issues.
“Their actions were spontaneous and callous. Arik Air finds it rather treacherous of the pilots to contemplate a strike at this yuletide season, which is the peak period for airlines all over the world. They peddle for naught the reputation and financial health of the company.
“It is instructive to note that the management of the airline has of late had very fruitful discussions with relevant aviation unions including NAAPE on conditions of service for all employees. This has led to the signing of a robust condition of service and redundancy benefits for staff,” it said.
The airline said efforts have been made to minimise the impact of the illegal strike, forcing it to cancel some fully booked flights.
“Arik Air regrets the inconvenience caused by this action and is doing everything in its powers to minimise the impact and discomfort to passengers,” it added.
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