Nigerian airline operators (AON) have urged passengers to brace themselves for yet another increase in the price of domestic aircraft tickets across the country.
Obiora Okonkwo, AON’s spokesperson, acknowledged this, citing varied taxation and exchange rates.
According to Okonkwo, who is also the chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, until the issues are solved, the cost of domestic airline tickets will continue to increase.
Why will airline tickets rise?
According to sources, Okonkwo claimed that aircraft operating in Nigeria are overwhelmed by several taxes, citing the forex regime of approximately N1,605 to one dollar.
He further noted that operators are required to purchase spares and repair their aircraft in dollars, despite rises in the cost of such spares abroad.
His words: “Unless the government recognises aviation’s essential role and invests adequately in the sector—by fostering a supportive environment with access to low-interest funding and cutting cumbersome charges and taxes—ticket prices will continue to climb.
“Following our recent travel to South Africa for an IATA meeting, it is apparent that Nigeria continues to have the highest aviation service expenses.