The Federal Government has initiated steps to address the rising cost of air travel and enhance airport security, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo announced during a ministerial press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, explained that domestic airlines struggle with costly aircraft leases, which directly impact ticket prices. To tackle this, the government is working on international agreements to facilitate better leasing options.
“We are addressing these issues through engagements like the Cape Town Convention and the Dublin Conference, where we expect positive outcomes soon,” he assured.
On international ticket prices, Keyamo revealed that foreign airlines had been setting higher fares for Nigerian travelers due to concerns over the repatriation of their earnings. However, with the government clearing the backlog of trapped airline funds, discussions are now underway to ensure that Nigerian passengers no longer bear unfair costs.
“They were selling tickets at higher rates to Nigerians while offering lower fares in other countries where they could immediately repatriate funds,” Keyamo explained, adding that some airlines charged up to ₦7 million for tickets that cost ₦2 million in neighbouring Ghana.
“We have settled outstanding payments, and airlines can no longer justify keeping Nigerian fares disproportionately high,” he said.
Keyamo also pointed out that airport taxes in Nigeria are among the highest in Africa, a factor that contributes to expensive flight tickets. While discussions are ongoing with aviation authorities, he noted that tax reductions would require collaboration with the Ministry of Finance.
“Our airports reportedly have some of the highest taxes in Africa, and airlines pass those costs onto passengers. While my ministry is addressing this issue, revenue matters fall under the Minister of Finance,” he added.
By addressing these challenges, the government seeks to ease the financial burden on travelers while improving the overall aviation sector.
