Air travel in Nigeria has become increasingly expensive, with domestic fares rising by over 300% in just two years, industry reports reveal.
For instance, a one-way ticket on the busy Lagos–Abuja route, which previously cost around ₦50,000, now exceeds ₦150,000. Similarly, return flights on other key routes, such as Lagos–Asaba, are being quoted at ₦600,000–₦750,000, while Lagos–Enugu tickets now range between ₦286,000 and ₦335,000.
Airline operators attribute the surge in fares to the skyrocketing cost of aviation fuel, which remains a major component of operational expenses. Other contributing factors include inflation, naira depreciation, and rising airport handling and service charges.
The dramatic increase is putting air travel out of reach for many Nigerians, forcing some passengers to cancel plans or revert to road transport despite security and safety concerns. Industry analysts warn that prolonged fare hikes could depress passenger traffic, affecting overall revenue for airlines and the aviation sector.
“Domestic air travel is increasingly unaffordable for ordinary Nigerians. If these trends continue, we may see a further decline in passenger numbers,” an aviation expert noted.
As airfares continue to climb, travelers are being urged to plan ahead and compare prices, while policymakers face pressure to address the underlying cost drivers in the aviation industry. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
