The Digest:
Air travel in Nigeria has become increasingly unaffordable, with fares on major routes rising by over 300% in just two years. The surge is forcing many to avoid flying or risk dangerous road trips amid rising insecurity and holiday price spikes.
Key Points
- A Lagos-Abuja ticket that cost an average of ₦50,000 in 2023 now exceeds ₦150,000.
- Some routes, like Lagos-Asaba, now cost up to ₦750,000 for a return ticket in December.
- The aviation sector is in recession, with passenger numbers down 27% since 2024.
- Experts blame high operational costs, multiple taxes, and currency depreciation.
- Airlines argue that fares remain low compared to international markets.
- Many Nigerians are opting for risky road travel due to unaffordable flights.
- The NCAA says fares are market-driven and not regulated by the government.
As fares climb beyond reach, the dream of flying becomes a luxury, grounding not just passengers, but the very connectivity that fuels a nation’s economy.
Sources: Daily Trust Analysis, NBS Data, IATA Report
