The President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Abdulmunaf Sarina, has confirmed that Nigerian airlines have significantly raised their minimum base fares to as high as N200,000 and more for one-way tickets. This sharp increase, amounting to nearly 100 percent, is directly linked to the relentless surge in the price of aviation fuel, commonly known as Jet A1.
Details of the Fare Increase
Searches on airline portals indicate that the upward revision in ticket prices affects most carriers, though a few have yet to adjust their fares as of the time of this report. Aviation fuel currently sells for about N2,650 per litre at various airports across the country.
Checks reveal that United Nigeria Airlines has set its minimum base fare at N200,000 per flight, regardless of the route. Air Peace has adjusted its fares upward to approximately N211,600 for one-way tickets. Ibom Air increased its base fare to around N200,300, while Arik Air still maintains fares of N113,000 and N114,000 per flight from Abuja to Lagos. Aero Contractors retains fares between N123,127 and N146,702 for selected routes, and ValueJet charges between N118,571 and N132,857 per flight for Abuja to Lagos.
Reasons Behind the Hike
Industry sources indicate that the fare increase became unavoidable as operators struggle with rising operational costs and dwindling cash flow. An official from one airline, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the decision was made after extensive consultations and careful consideration of prevailing economic realities. The source dismissed claims that airlines acted in concert, emphasizing that each carrier made an individual decision.
“We have adjusted our minimum fares to a minimum of N200,000 per flight irrespective of the route. This is something we have done with a lot of pain and after serious consideration of many factors,” the source said. “We cannot continue to subsidise travellers with the current situation of JetA1. Without the adjustment, there will be a serious crisis in the industry. Cash flows have run out and debts are mounting.”
The source appealed to the travelling public for understanding, insisting that the increase was unavoidable to ensure the survival of domestic airlines. “It is a painful decision, but we cannot continue to bury our heads in the sand,” the source added.
Government Response
The Federal Government had earlier promised intervention measures to cushion the impact of rising aviation fuel prices on operators, but as of Tuesday, no steps had been taken. The delay has left airlines to fend for themselves in a challenging economic environment.
