Airline shutdown – Air Namibia to be liquidated
Air Namibia is the next carrier to permanently stop
operations. Effective Thursday 11th February 2021 all flight
operations were canceled. All planes
were to return to the home base at Hosea Kutako International (WDH) in Windhoek. The airline
has existed for 74 years and was the national carrier of Namibia.
It appears that its fate hadn't been sealed by the pandemic, although it
certainly didn't help.
In a comprehensive statement the Namibian Minister of Finance, Ipumbu Shiimi
(MP), has explained the main reasons for the government's decision. He mainly
pointed out that the airline "has not been profitable since its
inception".
The press release doesn't specifically state the government's view on passenger
rights, namely compensations and refunds. However, the government (more or
less) said it would cover the cost of liquidation. For example, the Minister of
Finance stated that employees would receive "an ex-gratia payment to the
value of 12 month’s salary for each employee". Hence, it appears not
far stretched to expect a full covering of the passengers' site, too.
Consequences for you
Remember, an airline's insolvency does not hinder your
claim for a refund or even compensation should your journey be disrupted.
But since financial means are, generally speaking,
limited in bankruptcy or during the liquidation period, you should hurry if
you do not wish to be the last in line and potentially miss out. Check and file
your claim now.
This article does not provide legal
consultation. It is solely intended to inform the public on a general basis.
Please seek a legal professional's advice should you wish to be informed about
your personal situation. Neither Click2Refund nor the author is liable for any
consequences of any decisions based on this article.