NCAA.webp
The Digest:

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has refuted claims that government taxes are responsible for the sharp increase in domestic airfares during the December festive period. In a statement on X, NCAA Director of Public Affairs Michael Achimugu attributed the price surge to market forces and high seasonal demand, describing it as a recurring annual trend.

Key Points:
  • The NCAA said December fare hikes were driven by demand, not taxes
  • Michael Achimugu stated that the increases are an annual seasonal pattern
  • He challenged airline claims about excessive tax burdens, calling some figures misleading
  • The Authority said no domestic airline pays as many as 18 different taxes
  • Achimugu questioned why tickets hit ₦500,000 for short flights without tax or fuel increases
  • The statement followed Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema’s remarks on cheap fares and high charges
  • NCAA emphasized government support for airlines, including access to dry-leased aircraft
When explanations for high prices point in opposite directions, the truth often lies somewhere between policy, market forces, and the stories told in between.

Sources: Channels TV, Business Day