Green Africa, a leading low-cost airline, has announced a temporary suspension of its flight operations due to unforeseen challenges with its aircraft lessor.
This is just as ACIA Aero Leasing has repossessed three Green Africa aircraft, forcing an operational suspension.
This disruption, which takes effect immediately, is expected to last until after the Eid-Al-Fitr holidays.
Founder & CEO, Green Africa, Babawande Afolabi in a statement assured its customers, referred to as ‘gCustomers,’ that the airline is actively working to resolve the situation and resume operations as soon as possible. The airline expressed deep regret for the inconvenience caused and reaffirmed its commitment to keeping customers informed throughout the process.
The CEO extended warm Eid-Al-Fitr greetings to Muslim customers and wished them happiness, good health, and prosperity. He also took the opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day, paying tribute to his own mother, a retired public-school teacher, and recognizing the invaluable contributions of mothers and mother figures.
Green Africa has assured affected passengers that direct communication will be made through its customer service team, gCare, regarding refunds, rebooking options, and alternative travel arrangements. Customers are advised to check the airline’s official website and social media channels for real-time updates.
For further inquiries or support, gCustomers can reach out to the gCare specialists through the airline’s dedicated communication channels.
Green Africa reiterated its commitment to transparency and customer service and assured the public that every effort is being made to swiftly resolve the operational challenges and restore normal flight schedules. “At Green Africa, we remain focused on our long-term vision of making air travel more accessible and affordable to customers. We appreciate your support and patience as we work diligently to resume normal operations.”
According to a report by nigerianflightdeck.com, the affected ATR 72-600 planes are undergoing deregistration by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Reasons remain undisclosed but may relate to unpaid leases.
Sources confirm ACIA Aero Leasing triggered the repossession using the Irrevocable De-Registration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA). This legal mechanism allows lessors to reclaim aircraft if airlines default. Green Africa announced a temporary halt to flights, extending beyond Eid-Al-Fitr.
The airline cited “unforeseen lessor issues” without details. It also stated that despite efforts to manage the situation and avoid disruption, flights will remain grounded until after the Eid-Al-Fitr holidays. However, the repossession of three Green Africa action suggests payment failures. Passengers were directed to official channels for updates. Efforts to resolve the dispute continue.
ACIA Aero Leasing initially supplied the aircraft in June 2021, supporting Green Africa’s launch. The sudden repossessing of three Green Africa move has raised industry concerns. The move further reflects tightening lessor policies amid financial risks.
The NCAA’s swift deregistration highlights compliance with global leasing standards. Transitioning forward, Green Africa must renegotiate terms or secure alternate aircraft. Meanwhile, affected travelers face disruptions as the airline works toward a solution.
This case underscores aviation leasing challenges. Lessors increasingly enforce strict recovery measures. Airlines must maintain lease obligations to avoid operational crises. Green Africa’s situation serves as a cautionary example.
Green Africa Airways has engaged multiple lessors to build its fleet:ACIA Aero Leasing, GTLK Europe and Jump Air which they did a damp-leasing an ATR 72-500 in 2023
