Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest airline is poised to take over the troubled Nigerian airline Arik Air, causing much consternation on the continent.
Arik Air, Nigeria's biggest carrier, has since February, been operated by Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, thanks to a prolonged crisis that saw many services canceled, staff going without wages and huge soaring debt.
Ethiopian Airlines confirmed its bid for its Nigerian rival, “We have outlined our terms and conditions to the Nigerian government and we are waiting to see if they agree. We are capable and desirous of handling the airline.” The airlines managing director of international services Esayas WoldeMariam told the media. "We are bidding with other airlines, if we agree on the negotiations, we are ready to go and take over the management," he said.