Namibia's national carrier Air Namibia has stopped all operations, cancelling and grounding all aircrafts starting Thursday.

The airline urged all customers to cancel reservations and request refunds.

The announcement leaves more than 600 employees without jobs, New Era newspaper reported.

There was a cabinet decision to file for voluntary liquidation, according to the newspaper.

Employees will receive a basic salary for the next 12 months but will not receive any benefits, state-owned Namibian Broadcasting Corporation reports.

The airline has been having operational issues with the latest being last week's resignation of its board members who accused the government of interference.