[
  {
    "url": "https://www.thisdaylive.com/2024/10/18/h1-2024-economic-turmoil-stagnates-nigeria-air-passenger-traffic/",
    "text": "H1 2024: Economic Turmoil Stagnates Nigeria Air Passenger Traffic – THISDAYLIVE\n\n- Friday, 12th June, 2026\n\n- Africa\n- Rest of the World\n\nBreaking News\n\n##### Latest Headlines\n\n## For The Record: President Tinubu’s Democracy Day Address On June 12 (Full Text)\n\n## Akpabio Backs Women Inclusion as Sokoto Honours Margai\n\n## Tinubu: 13,000 Terrorists Neutralised in 1 Year\n\n## From 90% Debt Service to Fiscal Breathing Room: Tinubu’s Hard Reforms Are Paying Off\n\n---\n\n# H1 2024: Economic Turmoil Stagnates Nigeria Air Passenger Traffic\n\nChinedu Eze\n\nThe hope that air passenger traffic in Nigeria will improve this year has not materialise as the half year passenger traffic report showed that the sector has been stagnated by economic challenges.\n\nNumbers obtained from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), showed that a total number of 5, 609, 146 passengers travelled between January-June.\n\nWhile numbers for H1 2023 could not be accessed as at the time of filing this report, the 2024 half year air passenger traffic record is a clear indication of the distressed state of the Nigerian economy.\n\nThe NCAA), also indicated that total in-bound and out-bound international passenger traffic within the period was 1, 933, 144.\n\nThis shows that while more Nigerians are travelling out of the country as aginst domestic air travel, a development some industry experts attributed to low capacity and high airfares.\n\nAnalysis of the numbers showed that from January to June 2024, Aero Contractors airlifted 376, 713 passengers; Arik Air carried 447, 403 passengers; Dana Air carried 299, 040 passengers and Overland Airways airlifted 83, 435 passengers.\n\nAlso, Air Peace carried 2, 194, 476 passengers during the period, while Max Air airlifted 419, 392 passengers; Ibom Air, 587, 063 passengers; United Nigeria Airlines carried 481, 740 passengers and Green Africa carried 214, 817 passengers.\n\nValueJet carried 218, 448 passengers; Rano Air, 211, 243 passengers, NG Eagle airlifted 50, 182 and Azman Air lifted 26, 112 during the period under consideration.\n\nAlso, out of 1992 flights Aero Contractors recorded 740 delays; Arik Air recorded 1, 378 delays in 2, 331 flights, Dana Air, 999 in 1446 flights and Overland Airways, 696 in 1227 flights.\n\nAir Peace also recorded 5, 350 delays in 11, 111 flights, Max Air recorded 1, 247 in 2, 297 flights; Ibom Air recorded 1, 508 delays in 3, 879 flights; while United Nigeria operated 3, 912 and recorded 2, 439 delays.\n\nGreen Africa operated 2, 368 flights and recorded 836 delays; ValuJet, 1659 flights and recorded 582 delays; Rano Air, 2, 464 flights and recorded 761 delays; NG Eagle, 567 flights with 33 delays and Azman Air operated 145 flights with 76 delays.\n\nFurther analysis showed that domestic airlines recorded a lot of flight cancelation during the period, as Aero Contractors operated 1992 flights and recorded 33 cancellations; Arik Air, 2331 flights with 32 cancelations; Dana Air, 1446 flights with 7 cancellations and Overland Airways, which operated 1227 flights recorded 57 cancellations.\n\nAir Peace during the period operated 11, 111 flights and cancelled 294 flights, Max Air operated 2297 flights and cancelled 23; Ibom Air, 3879 and cancelled 71 flights; United Nigeria Airlines, 3912 flights and canceled 82, while Green Africa Airways operated 2368 flights and cancelled 50.\n\nAlso, ValueJet operated 1659 flights and cancelled 18; Rano Air, 2464 flights and cancelled 14; NG Eagle operated 567 flights and cancelled 15 and Azman Air operated 145 flights but no record of cancellations.\n\nIn total, domestic airlines operated 35, 398 flights in the first half of year 2024; while international airlines operated 7, 144 flights.\n\nReacting to the development, the Managing Director, Flight and Logistics Solutions Limited, Amos Akpan, said: “As the number of aircraft in operation by domestic airlines get fewer, schedules shrink, airports have fewer flights, and the domestic air traveller’s option become limited (less or no options). Domestic airlines cannot access forex to pay for turn around maintenance of their aircraft. There are fewer aircraft operating scheduled commercial flights within Nigeria now than three years ago. The reason the situation is not glaring is because the macro economic conditions has limited the ability of the domestic air traveller from taking trips by air.”\n\nAccording to him, domestic airlines are losing customers to alternative modes and wondered how the industry would survive and rebound without a review of certain government policies.\n\n“All stakeholders are continuously engaging with the government and the international aviation community for applicable solutions to our problems. The problems have been identified and the solutions are also known. The performance and status of current operators in the Nigerian aviation industry indicates they match internationally specified standards for the industry.\n\nThose who wish to travel during this coming christmas season will pay higher fares than ever done in Nigeria because the cost of producing the service will reflect on the sales price.We are inclined to postulate here that the Nigerian economy might cause most people that would have traveled by air to either find alternative mode or they won’t travel,” he said.\n\nHowever, the Executive Secretary of Aviation Round Table (ART), Olu Fidel Ohunayo, told THISDAY that low capacity spiked up fares because demand became higher than supply and the distress in the economy has reduced disposable income of the middle class, adding that even if there is capacity, many may not have the money to pay for the ticket to fly.\n\nOhunayo also observed that the recent statement credited to NCAA; that if it were to go by the result of these audits it ought to ground all the airlines, might discourage lessors from leasing aircraft to airline operators.\n\n“I think the recent statement by the regulator that none of the airlines is financially viable would also put panicbutton that would not sound well in the ears of the regular international lessors, insurance companies and business partners. The battle is on. While we look at the macroeconomic issues for the federal government to solve, the industry can also begin to solve theirs and one of the ways that I am looking at is, I think they need to look at that rigid age limit of aircraft,” he said.\n\nHe said that there are some airports that need narrow body aircraft and some of the aircraft that could be acquires for operation might be older than the minimum age limit policy, which will hamper Nigerian operators from acquiring such aircraft.\n\n“These airports need very small aircraft for flights to go to support the major airports. So we need small airports to have flights and the only way they can have flights is when you introduce 20, 10, 25-seater aircraft. Most of these aircraft are normal.They have been re-kitted, updated and made to meet with noise levels. The engines have been retuned to be more fuel efficient and it’s approach to fly in Europe and America for these kinds of airports. So we are not having them here because of the age limit,” he said.\n\nAll these, he said, would encourage Nigerian carriers to have capacity to meet the passenger demand, remarking that the use of smaller airports in Nigeria has become important because of insecurity in the country, noting that these airports will be serviced by narrow body aircraft that will feed the bigger airports with wider body equipment.\n\n“Because of the insecurity, these people are not risking that road. So they all take to those cities where they are sure of connecting flights, Abuja, Lagos or Port Harcourt. So we need to open up this small airports for flights.And when you do this, you are making better use of your airspace, you are having more employment within the industry, more experience for the operational personnel, more revenue for all the agencies, more improvement to Nigeria’s GDP. So we must look beyond the present Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and look at that option of licensing a new set of people (operators),” he added.\n\n## Related Articles\n\nFounded on January 22, 1995, THISDAY is published by THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LTD., 35 Creek Road Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria with offices in 36 states of Nigeria , the Federal Capital Territory and around the world. It is Nigeria’s most authoritative news media available on all platforms for the political, business, professional and diplomatic elite and broader middle classes while serving as the meeting point of new ideas, culture and technology for the aspirationals and millennials. The newspaper is a public trust dedicated to the pursuit of truth and reason covering a range of issues from breaking news to politics, business, the markets, the arts, sports and community to the crossroads of people and society.\n\n#### Helpful Links\n\n#### Contact Us\n\nYou can email us at: hello@thisdaylive.com or visit our contact us page.\n\n- Africa\n- Rest of the World"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://guardian.ng/business-services/aviation-business/air-peace-arik-air-lead-as-passenger-traffic-hits-15-6-million-yearly/",
    "text": "Air Peace, Arik Air lead as passenger traffic hits 15.6 million yearly\n\n# Air Peace, Arik Air lead as passenger traffic hits 15.6 million yearly\n\nPhoto of a light owned by Air Peace, a Nigerian airline.\n\nPhoto of a light owned by Air Peace, a Nigerian airline.\n\nStakeholders laud AMCON’s intervention\n\nThe duo of Air Peace and Arik Air airlines have emerged as the most patronised domestic carriers in the country, combining to net one-third of the 15.6 million passenger traffic recorded in 2024.\n\nWhile Air Peace remained the dominant carrier, transporting 3,114,040 passengers (with 1,544,492 inbound and 1,569,548 outbound travellers), Arik Air followed with a total of 2,239,176 passengers (including 1,112,358 inbound and 1,126,818 outbound). Ibom Air recorded 1,323,974 passengers, while Aero Contractors transported 964,900. Other domestic airlines included the suspended Dana Air with 299,040 passengers, Green Africa with 389,399, and Max Air 915,918.\n\nThe details, as contained in the passenger traffic report of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), show a total of 15.6 million passenger traffic in 2024 – about 200,000 passengers short of 15.8 million recorded in 2023.\n\nThe passenger movement statistics indicated that Nigeria recorded 4,135,830 travellers on international routes, comprising both inbound and outbound passengers, while domestic airlines carried 11,549,443 passengers.\n\nFor international routes, Qatar Airways led in passenger traffic, carrying 531,086 travellers—257,716 inbound and 273,370 outbound, followed by Ethiopian Airlines with 460,171 passengers, including 224,363 inbound and 235,808 outbound.\n\nBritish Airways also recorded 320,643 passengers, while Air France transported 254,054, Air Peace carried 247,893, and KLM recorded 158,321. Other international carriers included Kenya Airways with 115,426 passengers, Lufthansa with 248,617, Turkish Airlines with 239,371, and Virgin Atlantic with 218,254 passengers.\n\nFor Air Peace, the increase in patronage is not unconnected with its wider coverage of major cities in the country, West Coast operation, and international presence on the London route.\n\nThe airline recently marked its first anniversary on the Lagos-London-Lagos route, successfully operating over 662 flights ferrying 136,661 passengers.\n\nSimilarly, the record is a feat for Arik Air despite its endless legal battles. It would be recalled that Arik Air has been under the receivership of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) since 2017 and is still embroiled in legal disputes from its founding shareholders. Notwithstanding, the airline has kept its head above the water, operating 10,699 flights within the year under review.\n\nAviation experts commended the handlers for their exceptional performance against all odds.\n\nThe General Secretary of the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative, Olumide Ohunayo, said Arik Air’s performance in 2024 stands out as exceptional despite the airline being under AMCON receivership.\n\n“With a 13.4 per cent market share out of the 11.5 million total domestic passengers, Arik Air’s sustained dominance highlights its strong operational efficiency. This result demonstrates Arik’s operational stability under Receivership. Despite financial constraints, distractive litigations, fleet limitations, and regulatory challenges, the airline continued to deliver reliable air travel services, showing effective route management and passenger demand optimisation.\n\n“It should be noted that Arik Air suffered severe disruptions due to a high court order grounding some of its aircraft last year when mediation was a better option to the instantaneous grounding by the executive,”\n\nThe Managing Director of Top Brass Aviation Limited, Capt. Roland Iyayi shared a similar sentiment. Iyayi reckoned that Arik Air transporting 2.2 million passengers and securing the second position in Nigeria’s domestic market, ahead of competitors like Ibom Air (1.3 million), Max Air (915,918), and Aero Contractors (964,900) is a huge and massive achievement, considering the disruptions the airline had suffered under receivership.\n\nHe said the airline’s performance is remarkable, given its limited access to fresh capital, ageing fleet, and regulatory hurdles tied to its receivership status.\n\n“The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria’s (AMCON) strategic support deserves recognition for its crucial role in stabilising Arik Air, ensuring its continued operations, and maintaining confidence among passengers.\n\n“Without AMCON’s intervention, the airline would not have remained a key player in Nigeria’s aviation industry. Arik Air’s ability to thrive under receivership reaffirms AMCON’s commitment to preserving jobs, sustaining economic contributions, and ensuring safe, reliable airline services for Nigerian travellers,” Iyayi said.\n\nShare :\n\n# The News You Need, Delivered To You.\n\nSubscribe to the Guardian today and never miss the stories that shape your Business"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://nigerianflightdeck.com/arik-air-airlifts-2-2m-passengers-in-2024-ncaa/",
    "text": "Arik Air Airlifts 2.2m Passengers in 2024-NCAA - NigerianFLIGHTDECK\n\nSign in\n\nAdvert & Editorial Policy\n\n- Advert Rates\n- Editorial Policy & House Style\n\n- Airline Fleet & Routes\n- Cargo/Handling\n- Other Transportation News\n\n- Explore\n- Points of View\n\nSign in\n\nWelcome!Log into your account\n\nyour username\n\nyour password\n\nForgot your password?\n\nPassword recovery\n\nRecover your password\n\nyour email\n\nSearch\n\nTuesday, June 16, 2026\n\n- Sign in / Join\n\nSign in\n\nWelcome! Log into your account\n\nyour username\n\nyour password\n\nForgot your password? Get help\n\nPassword recovery\n\nRecover your password\n\nyour email\n\nA password will be e-mailed to you.\n\nHome Airline Fleet & Routes Arik Air Airlifts 2.2m Passengers in 2024-NCAA\n\n- Airline Fleet & Routes\n\nArik Dash 8 sourced from Airliner.net\n\nAdvertisement\n\n---\n\n# “Moving 19.3% of Nigeria’s domestic passengers under receivership is exceptional. Despite legal and financial hurdles, Arik maintained operational stability.”\n\n---\n\nArik Air transported 2,239,176 passengers in 2024, according to a report from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Furthermore, the airline, under the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) receivership since 2017, operated 10,699 flights, accounting for 15.1% of the 70,543 flights conducted by all 15 domestic airlines. These figures confirm that Arik Air did well in the domestic market operations despite its financial constraints.\n\nThe NCAA report revealed that total domestic air travel in 2024 reached 11,549,443 passengers. This comprises 5,727,700 inbound and 5,821,743 outbound travelers. Impressively, Arik Air captured 19.3% of this traffic, solidifying its position as a major player. In fact, the airline’s ability to hold sway in the domestic market becomes even more notable considering its receivership status.\n\nMonthly performance data showed Arik Air’s passenger traffic peaked in November (508,026 passengers) and July (315,190 passengers). Similarly, flight operations surged to 2,442 flights in November and 1,403 in July. These numbers demonstrate consistent operational capacity despite challenges.\n\nOperationally, the airline maintained high standards with only 190 complaints in 2024. Remarkably, it recorded zero baggage losses and just one overbooking incident in October. Additionally, no complaints arose in January, while the airline resolved all 84 delayed baggage cases promptly.\n\nAviation Safety Round Table Initiative General Secretary Olumide Ohunayo praised Arik’s performance: “Moving 19.3% of Nigeria’s domestic passengers under receivership is exceptional. Despite legal and financial hurdles, Arik maintained operational stability.” He further noted that the airline’s ability to dominate the domestic market under such conditions speaks volumes about its management.\n\nTop Brass Aviation Managing Director Roland Iyayi added perspective: “Arik performs remarkably despite its limited capital access and aging fleet. AMCON’s support crucially maintains operations.” Iyayi emphasized, “AMCON’s intervention saved the aviation sector from losing a key contributor.”\n\nIn conclusion, while operating under receivership, Arik Air not only survived but thrived, demonstrating its ability to dominate the domestic market. The airline’s 19.3% market share and transport of 2.2 million passengers in 2024 underscore its continued importance to Nigeria’s aviation industry.\n\n#### RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR\n\nAirline Fleet & Routes\n\n### Guinea-Bissau, United Nigeria sign aviation pact to launch national carrier\n\nAirline Fleet & Routes\n\n### Ibom Air Begins Operations from New Ultramodern Terminal June 14\n\nAirline Fleet & Routes\n\n### 737-800 Acquisition Boosts Air Peace Fleet Expansion, Route Efficiency\n\n© NigerianFLIGHTDECK — Elevating aviation news, business, and travel reportage across Nigeria and beyond. Stay informed. Fly ahead.\n\n#### EVEN MORE NEWS\n\n### AfBAA Launches Landmark Research to Transform African Business Aviation\n\n15th June 2026\n\n### Airport Taxi Operators Seek More Time for New Car Models\n\n15th June 2026\n\n### Guinea-Bissau, United Nigeria sign aviation pact to launch national carrier\n\n14th June 2026\n\n- Disclaimer\n- Privacy\n- Advertisement\n- Contact Us\n\n© NigerianFLIGHTDECK | All Rights Reserved. Design by Tommy Aniekeme"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://intelpoint.co/insights/air-peace-leads-nigerias-airline-fleet-with-37-aircraft-more-than-double-any-other-operator/",
    "text": "Air Peace leads Nigeria’s airline fleet with 37 aircraft, more than double any other operator - Intelpoint\n\n# Air Peace leads Nigeria’s airline fleet with 37 aircraft, more than double any other operator\n\n## Key Takeaways\n\n- Air Peace operates the largest fleet with 37 aircraft, combining its mainline and subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper.\n- Arik Air and Max Air follow distantly with 14 and 10 aircraft respectively, less than half of Air Peace’s combined fleet.\n- Only 5 airlines operate fleets of 8 or more aircraft, highlighting a significant concentration of operational strength at the top.\n- Over one-third of the listed airlines (7 out of 20) operate with fleets of just 4 aircraft or fewer.\n\nAs of May 2025, Air Peace leads Nigeria’s aviation sector with a fleet size of 37 aircraft. This includes both its mainline operations and its regional subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper. This consolidated figure places the airline far ahead of its closest competitor, Arik Air, which operates 14 aircraft. The dominance is further underscored when compared with the rest of the field. Only Max Air and Ibom Air come close to the top tier, operating 10 and 9 aircraft respectively, while all others fall below those numbers.\n\nFleet size distribution reveals a steep drop after the top few. Overland Airways (8), IRS Airlines (7), and a few others hold mid-tier positions, while a large portion of airlines maintain lean operations, many with fleets as small as 1 or 2 aircraft. This fragmented landscape shows that aside from a few strong operators, the Nigerian airline industry is heavily populated by smaller players, with over 35% of carriers managing no more than 4 aircraft.\n\n### Source:\n\nPlanepotters\n\n Find more insights at Intelpoint. \n\nCopied to clipboard!\n\n### Period:\n\nMay 2025\n\nHTML code to embed chart\n\nWant a bespoke report?\n\nClick to copy HTML embed code\n\n Find more insights at Intelpoint. \n\nCopied to clipboard!\n\nTags\n\nRelated Insights\n\n---\n\n₦8.9 billion has been allocated towards the establishment of Nigeria Air in 8 years\n\nFrom the initial ₦555 million commitment in the 2016 national budget, Nigeria Air (the national carrier) has received ₦8.957 billion in budgetary allocation as of 2023, with the past four years accounting for more than 80% of the allocation received.\n\n---\n\nPOPULAR TOPICS\n\nGET IN TOUCH\n\n+234 813 204 738 hello@intelpoint.co\n\nFIND US ON\n\nSIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER\n\nGet periodic updates about the African startup space, access to our reports, among others.\n\nSubscription Form\n\nSubscribe\n\nSign Up\n\n---\n\nA product of Techpoint Africa. All rights reserved\n\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n\nSubscription Form\n\nNotify\n\nSign Up"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/IS.AIR.PSGR?locations=NG",
    "text": "Air transport, passengers carried - Nigeria | Data\n\n# Air transport, passengers carried - Nigeria\n\nCivil Aviation Statistics of the World, International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO ), uri: data.icao.int/newdataplus/#:~:text=ICAO%20data%20is%20comprised%20of,information%20about%20commercial%20air%20carriers; ICAO Staff estimates, International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO ), uri: data.icao.int/newdataplus/#:~:text=ICAO%20data%20is%20comprised%20of,information%20about%20commercial%20air%20carriers\n\nLabel\n\n## Selected Countries and Economies\n\nCountry\n\nMost Recent Year\n\nMost Recent Value\n\n## All Countries and Economies\n\nCountry\n\nMost Recent Year\n\nMost Recent Value(Thousands)\n\nHelp us improve this site Help / Feedback\n\n- ICSID\n- MIGA\n- IFC\n- IDA\n- IBRD\n\n- Contact\n- Jobs\n- Access to Information\n- Privacy Notice\n- Legal\n\n© 2026 The World Bank Group, All Rights Reserved.\n\nREPORT FRAUD OR CORRUPTION\n\nThis site uses cookies to optimize functionality and give you the best possible experience. If you continue to navigate this website beyond this page, cookies will be placed on your browser. To learn more about cookies, click here."
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.legit.ng/business-economy/industry/1648809-full-list-air-peace-arik-air-lead-highest-passenger-traffic-nigeria/",
    "text": "Full List: Air Peace, Arik Air Lead With Highest Passenger Traffic in Nigeria - Legit.ng\n\n- A report by the NCAA says Air Peace emerged as the Nigerian airline with the highest passenger traffic in 2024\n- Arik Air emerged as the second-largest carrier in 2024, carrying 2.239,197 passengers during the period under review\n- On the international route, Qatar Airways led the pack with 531,086 travellers, combining 257,716 inbound and 273,370 outbound\n\nLegit.ng’s Pascal Oparada has reported on tech, energy, stocks, investment and the economy for over a decade.\n\nAir Peace and Arik Air have emerged as the most patronised domestic airlines, carrying a net one-third of the 15.6 million passenger traffic in 2024.\n\nAir Peace emerged as the dominant carrier, carrying 3,114,040 passengers in the review period with 1,544,492 inbound and 1,569,548 outbound passengers.\n\nNigerian airlines carried over 15 million passengers in 2024, the NCAA report shows. Credit: Novatis Source: Getty Images\n\n## Domestic airlines with the highest passenger traffic\n\nAirk Air followed with 2,239,176 passengers, including 1,112,358 inbound and 1,126,818 outbound.\n\nIbom Air came third with 1,323,974 passengers, while Aero Contractors moved 964,900.\n\nRead alsoAir Peace, United Airlines, Arik top list as NCAA releases breakdown of flight disruptions\n\nOther airlines include Dana Air with 299,040 passengers, Green Africa with 389,399, and Max Air with 915,918 passengers.\n\nThe report is contained in the passenger traffic report released by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), showing 15.6 million passenger traffic in 2024, 200,000 less than the 15.8 million recorded in 223.\n\nThe passenger movement data shows that Nigeria recorded 4,135,830 travellers on international routes, including inbound and outbound travellers, while domestic carriers ferried 11,549,443 passengers.\n\n## International airlines with the highest passenger traffic\n\nOn the international routes, Qatar Airways led in passenger traffic, with 531,086 travellers, combining 257,716 inbound and 273,370 outbound, while Ethiopian Airlines recorded 460,171 passengers, including 224,363 inbound and 235,808 outbound.\n\nBritish Airways recorded 320,643 passengers, while Air France moved 254,054, Air Peace recorded 247,893, and KLM recorded 158,321.\n\nOthers are Kenyan Airways with 115,426 passengers, Lufthansa with 248,617, Turkish Airlines with 239,371, and Virgin Atlantic with 218,254 travellers.\n\nThe increase in Air Peace patronage is due to its wider coverage in major cities in Nigeria, the West Coast, and its international presence on the London route.\n\nRead alsoNaira gains against USD as CBN reports highest net FX reserves in 3 years\n\nNigeria’s largest carrier recently celebrated its first anniversary on the successful operation of the Lagos-London-Lagos route, operating over 662 flights, and carrying 136,661 travellers.\n\nGuardian reports that Arik Air’s record is a remarkable feat despite legal battles.\n\nThe airline has successfully navigated the challenges, operating 10,699 flights in the review year.\n\nExperts commended Arik Air handlers for their stellar performance against the challenges.\n\n## Airlines with the most theft and discourtesy\n\nThe development comes as the NCAA released the list of airlines, domestic and international, with the highest theft and discourtesy in Nigeria.\n\nIn its Executive Summary on domestic and international flights, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority(NCAA) named airlines and the number of thefts and discourtesies on the Nigerian route.\n\nAccording to NCCA, Royal Air leads with the highest number of theft and discourtesy incidents on international flights, with 58 cases out of 473 flights operated in 2024.\n\nQatar Air recorded 47 cases of theft and discourtesy out of 1,375 flights, while Egypt Air had 47 cases of theft out of 820 flights, and Ethiopian Air had 38 cases of 1,197 flights in 2024.\n\nRead alsoNCAA lists Qatar Air, Air Peace, others as airlines with highest theft, poor service in Nigeria\n\nTurkish Airlines recorded 28 incidents out of 582 flights, and Taac Angola recorded 23 cases out of 225 flights in the review period.\n\n## Airlines with the highest thefts on domestic routes\n\nOn domestic flights, Air Peace topped the list with 404 cases out of 15,413 flights operated within the period. Arik Air had 396 cases out of 10,699 flights, Dana Air recorded 316 cases out of 1,446 flights, and Aero Contractors recorded 270 thefts out of 4,599 flights.\n\nAllen Onyema-owned Air Peace shines as the Nigerian airline with the highest passenger traffic in 2024. Credit:@flyairpeace Source: UGC\n\nOthers are Ibom Air with 238 cases out of 7,856 flights, Green Africa recorded 170 cases out of 4,215 flights, and United Nigeria Airlines recorded 131 theft and discourtesy incidents out of 7,794 flights.\n\nMax Air recorded 84 cases out of 4,783 flights, overland recorded 52 thefts and discourtesy cases out of 3.407 flights, and NG Eagle had 35 cases out of 1,166 flights in the period under review.\n\n## Nigerian Airlines acquires new aircraft\n\nLegit.ng earlier reported that A Nigerian airline, Green Africa, has acquired a new aircraft a few days after announcing flight suspension as its lessor reportedly repossessed its aircraft.\n\nRead alsoUBA, Zenith, GTBank, 2 other banks hit N3.3 trillion in profit in 2024\n\nThe new aircraft, ATR 72-500 with serial number 852 and registration number 5N-GAB, is expected to be launched shortly after the usual regulatory approvals.\n\nGreen Africa suspended operations due to what the management described as unforeseen circumstances.\n\nSource: Legit.ng\n\nAuthors:\n\nPascal Oparada (Business editor) For over a decade, Pascal Oparada has reported on tech, energy, stocks, investment, and the economy. He has worked in many media organizations such as Daily Independent, TheNiche newspaper, and the Nigerian Xpress. He is a 2018 PwC Media Excellence Award winner. Email:pascal.oparada@corp.legit.ng\n\nTags:\n\nNCAA (Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority) FAAN (Federal Airports Authority Of Nigeria)\n\nHot:\n\nApply now: NCDMB calls on Nigerian students to gain tech, digital skills with monthly stipends\n\n24 minutes ago\n\nUK mentions 2 Nigerian governorship elections it will deploy personnel to and why\n\n44 minutes ago\n\nTension as local Govt imposes 24-hour curfew in top state\n\n45 minutes ago\n\nBreaking\n\nWeapons looted in Libya found in Nigeria, details emerge\n\n46 minutes ago\n\nWar against terrorists: Makinde speaks on missions carried out by Nigerian Air Force\n\nan hour ago\n\nList of 10 states in Nigeria with highest fares for journey by Okada\n\n18 hours ago\n\nMultiChoice launches new campaign for DStv subscribers to watch over 160 channels for free\n\n4 days ago\n\nPaystack takes over as Nigerian banking startup ends operation\n\n4 days ago\n\nOyo: Bandits’ alleged demands spark concerns as Verydarkman shares latest observations\n\n19 hours ago\n\nAAC gubernatorial candidate Doris Ogala shares update about her health after falling unconscious\n\n11 hours ago\n\nOyo: WAEC under fire as students write WASSCE papers late into the night, videos surface\n\n20 hours ago\n\nTaraba State University graduate who refused to settle for less trends, flaunts certificate and CGPA\n\n21 hours ago\n\n\"We never threatened her\": JTON Music responds to Qing Madi's allegations\n\n17 hours ago"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://tbiafrica.com/2022/02/21/local-airlines-struggle-with-depleted-fleet-low-market-penetration/",
    "text": "Local airlines struggle with depleted fleet, low market penetration – The Business Intelligence\n\nJune 10, 2026\n\nTrending now\n\n### Meren Energy eyes fresh investments as NUPRC…\n\n### FG approves payment of over ₦700bn to…\n\n### Cooking gas scarcity, high price persist despite…\n\n### Energia appoints Adetokunbo Oshisanya director\n\n### Nigerians spend N50bn on US visa applications\n\n### MTN defends tariff hike, plans N1tn investment\n\n### Woman fakes own kidnap, found in Delta…\n\n### Nigeria mulls sanctions against South Africa over…\n\n### FG confirms four dead, 24 injured in…\n\n### Iran accuses US of revoking World Cup…\n\nDespite an appreciable surge in the number of new investors angling to float local airlines, the industry is much more in a precarious zone with operators struggling with depleted fleet capacity and low market penetration.\n\nBy total fleet capacity, the country parades over 100 assorted commercial airplanes out of which over 48 are grounded. That depletion earns the country less than five per cent coverage of its over 200 million local population, 10 per cent of West African market share and about two per cent of the African market, despite the largest population density.\n\nWhile new start-ups and a rash of leased aircraft have surfaced lately, the burden of keeping up with routine maintenance programmes, spike in the cost of aviation fuel, and multiple charges remain an albatross on sustainable air transport.\n\nConspicuously missing too is the current administration’s promises to the sector, especially in the areas of aircraft leasing companies and Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities to meet local demands and defray huge capital flight.\n\nApparently unimpressed with the worsening state of affairs, stakeholders have warned that the sector risks collapse without an urgent intervention. They said, while investors and operators are braving the odds to place orders for new aircraft and lease capacity in the short-run, government should do its bit in creating an enabling and stable business-friendly environment that works for all.\n\nIndeed, in local and continental aviation, Nigeria is clearly not living up to its aerial potential. With over 200 million people and an airport in almost all 36 states of the federation, the industry has only nine million local air traffic, yearly, – being one of the lowest population-to-air-travellers’ ratios on the continent.\n\nDirector-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Musa Nuhu, noted that the sector recorded growth in the number of new investors in 2021. Three new airlines (United Nigeria, Green Africa and Cally Air) did join existing seven carriers, while the apex regulatory body had 15 requests for Air Operator’s Certification (AOC) pending as at December.\n\nBut fleet capacity is yet to feel the boom. Air Peace airline has 34 aircraft in its fleet, to earn it the biggest airline in West Africa and sixth largest in Africa. Though it welcomed the fifth of its 13 brand new Embraer 195-E2 jets at the twilight of 2021, the airline has only 20 aircraft in operations at the moment, five of which were recently damp-leased Airbus 320s from Malta.\n\nArik Air ranks second in local industry capacity, with 37 aircraft before it came under receivership almost five years ago. It currently flies 11, at least two of which are on dry-lease programmes.\n\nAero Contractors parades eight-aircraft fleet, The Guardian learnt. Four are in operation. Of the four, two Airbus 320s are on wet-least, also known as ACMI.\n\nIbom Air, in three years of impressive performance has acquired seven aircraft, two of which are leased. Dana Air parades seven aircraft, out of which five are in operation. United Nigeria has five; one of them is on the ACMI programme. Azman also has six aircraft, of which four are in operation. The rough estimate of seven out of the 10 operating airlines showed 104 commercial aircraft in all, out of which 56 are active, 48 grounded and 12 on lease arrangement.\n\nA recent survey by ATQ News platform showed a corresponding match between depleted fleet and flight delays. For instance, Air Peace with about 40 per cent of local market share delayed 55 per cent of its 17,861 operated flights in 2021. Arik delayed 57 per cent of its 9,024 flights; Dana Air, 55 per cent of 9,360 flights; Green Africa, 49 per cent of its 1,092 and Ibom Air, 27 per cent of 9,551 flights operated.\n\nChief Operating Officer (COO) of one of the airlines told The Guardian that the figures mirror the “dire” situation in the industry.\n\n“No matter how well we try, we cannot give what we don’t have. All the airlines are struggling to keep the safety standard to survive. The challenges are just too enormous for any operator and regulators to pretend as if they are not there. We have the aircraft, but not the dollar requirements to pay for overseas repairs or spare parts. So, the aircraft stayed grounded and nobody seemed to care.\n\n“You cannot blame the operator for not sourcing a $2 million single repair bill at N575/$ black-market rate, because he earns no such money from travellers. Rather, ask the government what they have done to avail FX at an official rate to airlines or what exactly has this government done to alleviate the plight of the aviation industry and improve the operating environment? None! The COVID-19 palliative budget for the operators, did we get it? Where is the MRO facility that they promised? Are we better off than we were seven or two years ago? No! And that is the problem,” he said.\n\nAero Contractors, the oldest commercial carrier in the country, currently under receivership, is now showing signs of distress with its inability to pay salaries.\n\nAggrieved workers complained that the “distress” was not unconnected with the leased Airbus 320 airplanes “to replace” Boeing737s. In the process, wage bills of top managers had allegedly ballooned, with attendant heavy debt burden on the carrier.\n\nOne of the workers noted that the leased airplanes were planned for northern route operations. “But when they arrived, the aircraft started competing with our Aero aircraft on our lucrative routes, collecting our passengers, revenue and remitting fares from only three seats of an aircraft of almost 200 capacity.\n\n“Last December, they collected N35, 000 airfare per passenger and over 80, 000 passengers booked. Unfortunately, one of their (leased) aircraft had an issue and could not fly. They used Aero’s B737 to ferry passengers, made huge amounts and paid themselves (managers) while the workers were lamenting.”\n\nA top official of the airline confirmed that the airline was indeed going through rough patches as a result of the economic downturn. He, however, denied that the airline has taken the regular workers for granted.\n\n“Some of the workers have already been paid and others will also get theirs soon. There is hope that the airline will bounce back once our airplanes resume operations,” the official said.\n\nFormer president of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Isaac Balami, earlier told The Guardian that Nigerian carriers had been deploying more of medium range aircraft for short haul domestic flights, describing it as the bane of unaffordable cost of maintenance, business failure and high number of unserviceable aircraft.\n\nBalami, an engineer and CEO of 7 Stars Global Hangar, said he was not surprised by the high toll of grounded aircraft, given that Nigeria accounts for 80 per cent of all aircraft in the West and Central African region, majority of which are the Boeing series.\n\n“The problem with that is the flight-cycle and maintenance requirements. The aircraft engine and maintenance schedule are measured by the flight-cycle. Lagos-Abuja is less than one-hour, compared to other countries that use Boeing737 for three or four hour flight duration. I was on a Boeing jet engine from Abuja to Jos in just 21 minutes flight-cycle. And once you have reached your flight-cycle number, irrespective of the hours flown or passenger traffic, you must go for maintenance,” he said.\n\nBalami said further that it was regrettable that the government has not deemed it fit to establish a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria since 60 years of independence.\n\nHe said efforts by private sectors to establish the critical facility to support both airlines and the industry had been frustrated by government policies and refusal of banks to support the venture.\n\nChairman of United Nigeria Airways (UNA), Dr. Obiora Okonkwo, said aviation fuel was N190/litre when he began operations in February 2021. Unfortunately, the same quantity sells for an average of N400 today.\n\nOkonkwo noted that fuel alone accounts for between 30 to 40 per cent of aviation revenue. “The FX on our day-one was N340/$. Now, it is N450/$, if it is available on the official window, otherwise we get it at N570/$ on the black-market. The first ticket we sold was N23, 000, but (base) ticket has not gone beyond N30, 000. It means those tickets are being subsidized by airlines just to meet up with the cost of operations.\n\n“Yet, for every ticket you sell, you have five per cent in Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) going directly to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). From the ticket, you also pay the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and other charges. What remains?”\n\nTo save the carriers from the dire situation, Obiora said there is a need for special funding for the sector that heavily supports the economy.\n\n“Operators are looking for solutions to many of these challenges. We can’t talk about safety without looking at rising costs and proper financing of operations. An aircraft on ground deserves urgent attention. We need the government’s support to achieve that,” Okonkwo said.\n\nAviation expert, Group Capt. John Ojikutu (rtd) said operators too should begin to review their business plans to align with today’s realities.\n\nOjikutu warned that things are not going to be easy for any airline if each of Arik, Aero and Air Peace, for instance, have 60 per cent of their fleet flying.\n\n“The competition will level all of them to where each belongs. So, every airline’s business plan should demonstrate the operational costs, which will include costs of fuel, navigational charges, landing and parking fees, handling charges, catering, staff salaries, and statutory charges of five per cent TSC, VAT and the FIRS Corporate Taxes.\n\n“Any airline that begins complaining after commencing operation does not know what to look for and if you don’t know what you are looking for, you will never find it,” Ojikutu said.\n\nprevious post\n\n##### EKEDC, NDPHC sign deal to improve power supply\n\nnext post\n\n##### Company expects 2.3 billion litres of PMS to stabilise distribution\n\n##### Our Reporter\n\n#### Related posts\n\n#### Nigerian Ports Authority wins 2022 Maritime Cup\n\nNovember 1, 2022November 1, 2022\n\n#### Ardova postpones board meeting, extends closed period\n\nApril 30, 2022\n\n#### Experts call for Africa’s continental medicines regulatory body\n\nDecember 11, 2018December 11, 2018\n\n#### Apapa LG boss laments exit of investors, multinationals from port\n\nOctober 10, 2022\n\n#### Sallah: 11 youths die in road accident in Katsina\n\nJune 19, 2018\n\n#### FG pledges sustenance of “Operation White” to curb fuel smuggling\n\nOctober 29, 2019October 28, 2019\n\n@2018 - PenNews. All Right Reserved. Designed and Developed by PenciDesign"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.legit.ng/business-economy/industry/1691336-air-peace-max-air-local-airlines-trouble-domestic-traffic-falls/",
    "text": "Air Peace, Max Air, Other Local Airlines in Trouble as Domestic Traffic Drops - Legit.ng\n\n- Nigeria's domestic air travel sees 13.6% decline, reaching three-year low of 12.54 million passengers\n- International passenger traffic rises steadily, increasing 15.5% from 2022 to 2024 amid local challenges\n- Experts warn high costs and poor service threaten domestic airlines' recovery as road travel gains popularity\n\nFind it fast with our new search feature at Legit.ng!\n\nNigeria’s aviation sector is showing clear signs of imbalance, with domestic air travel sliding to its weakest level in three years while international passenger traffic continues to climb.\n\nNew data released by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria(FAAN) highlights mounting pressure on local airlines such as Air Peace, Max Air and other domestic operators that rely heavily on intra-country routes.\n\nFestus Keyamo-led Aviation ministry keeps mute as domestic flight fares soar. Credit: Novatis Source: Getty Images\n\nAccording to FAAN, passenger movements on domestic routes have steadily declined, reflecting rising costs, operational challenges and changing travel choices among Nigerians.\n\nThe trend underscores growing uncertainty for local airlines already grappling with high overheads and weak consumer confidence, according to a Punch report.\n\nRead alsoPwC projects naira to dollar exchange rate in 2026\n\nFrom breaking news to viral moments. Follow Legit.ng on Instagram.\n\n## Domestic traffic hits three-year low\n\nFAAN figures show that domestic passenger traffic fell to 12.54 million in 2024, down sharply from 14.52 million recorded in 2022.\n\nThis represents a contraction of about 13.6 per cent over three years, translating to nearly two million lost passengers in what was once the backbone of Nigeria’s aviation industry.\n\nThe decline has been gradual but persistent. Between 2022 and 2023, passenger numbers dropped by 7.6 per cent to 13.41 million.\n\nThe downward slide continued in 2024, with a further 6.4 per cent year-on-year reduction. Industry watchers say rising airfares, multiple taxes and frequent flight disruptions have made domestic flying less attractive to the average traveller.\n\n## Costs, taxes and frustrated passengers\n\nThroughout 2024 and 2025, domestic airlines repeatedly complained about multiple taxation and charges across airports, which they say have pushed operating costs to unsustainable levels.\n\nThese costs are often passed on to passengers through higher ticket prices, making air travel less competitive compared to road transport.\n\nRead also2026: PwC projects 141 million Nigerians will live in poverty, presidency reacts\n\nAviation stakeholders warn that unless cost pressures ease and service quality improves, more Nigerians will continue to opt for road travel, despite security and safety concerns associated with long-distance journeys.\n\n## International travel tells a different story\n\nWhile domestic routes struggle, international air travel is enjoying steady growth.\n\nFAAN data shows that international passenger traffic rose from 3.75 million in 2022 to 4.07 million in 2023, an increase of 8.4 per cent.\n\nThe upward momentum continued in 2024, with passenger numbers climbing to 4.33 million, representing another 6.4 per cent growth.\n\nBetween 2022 and 2024, international traffic expanded by 15.5 per cent, adding over 580,000 passengers.\n\nAnalysts link this growth to sustained demand from high-income travellers, increased migration, expanding cross-border trade and Nigeria’s deeper integration into global travel networks.\n\nLimited local capacity has also allowed foreign airlines to benefit more from international demand.\n\n## Service quality and value for money in focus\n\nA retired pilot, Mohammed Badamosi, said the domestic decline could persist if airlines fail to improve passenger treatment and reliability.\n\nHe noted that high fares, frequent delays and cancellations discourage travellers who often find road transport more predictable.\n\nRead alsoNaira begins 2026 with massive gains as CBN Pumps $7.5 billion into FX market\n\nBadamosi argued that in more developed markets, travel is packaged to be attractive, combining flights, road transport and accommodation to deliver better value.\n\nHe stressed that Nigerian airlines must respect passengers, keep to schedules and deliver consistent service if domestic aviation is to recover.\n\nAs international travel thrives, the shrinking domestic market remains a warning signal, one that could reshape Nigeria’s aviation landscape if left unaddressed.\n\n## Operators warn of fare hikes\n\nA prior report by Legit.ng disclosed that a number of local airlines hiked their fares during the yuletide, leading to the fall in passenger traffic.\n\nExperts blame the increased fares for the abandonment local airlines.\n\nAir Peace Chairman, Allen Onyema, warns of rise in domestic fares, FG counters Credit: Air Peace/X Source: UGC\n\nRecently, Allen Onyema, the Chairman of Air Peace, disclosed that domestic airfares may hit N1 million if the Nigerian government goes ahead to implement the new tax laws.\n\n## FG denies Air Peace CEO’s claim over new taxes\n\nLegit.ng earlier reported that the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee said Nigeria’s new tax laws were designed to support airlines, not harm them, as concerns continue over rising operating costs in the aviation sector.\n\nRead alsoVenezuela crisis may affect Nigeria, creating $10b hole in FG’s N58tr spending plan\n\nIn a statement released by the committee, it acknowledged the financial pressures facing domestic airlines, particularly the impact of multiple taxes, levies and regulatory charges.\n\nAir Peace CEO Allen Onyema predicted an uptrend in airfares as new tax provisions threatened to push local flight fares beyond N1 million and forced airlines to suspend operations.\n\nProofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at Legit.ng.\n\nSource: Legit.ng\n\nAuthors:\n\nPascal Oparada (Business editor) For over a decade, Pascal Oparada has reported on tech, energy, stocks, investment, and the economy. He has worked in many media organizations such as Daily Independent, TheNiche newspaper, and the Nigerian Xpress. He is a 2018 PwC Media Excellence Award winner. Email:pascal.oparada@corp.legit.ng\n\nTags:\n\nNCAA (Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority) FAAN (Federal Airports Authority Of Nigeria) Federal Government Of Nigeria\n\nHot:\n\nTurkish pundit explains why Victor Osimhen’s departure will create problems for Galatasaray\n\n2 minutes ago\n\nNIMET sends important message on weather situation in Nigeria, warns\n\n18 minutes ago\n\nCharly Boy raises concerns over celebrity silence as insecurity persists in Nigeria\n\n28 minutes ago\n\nNigerian banks face N100m penalty for FX transactions\n\n32 minutes ago\n\nWASPAN accuses FCCPC of expanding DEON approvals despite court order, suspension\n\n33 minutes ago\n\nMultiChoice launches new campaign for DStv subscribers to watch over 160 channels for free\n\n5 days ago\n\nCost of bus transportation rises in Nigeria, residents of 10 states pay more\n\na day ago\n\nDStv shake-up looms as Canal+ reworks pricing, adds more channels for millions of subscribers\n\n10 days ago\n\n\"Nigerian army, police, DSS are among the best in the world\": Apostle Suleman shares setback facing officers\n\n21 hours ago\n\nBowen University publishes school fees for 100-level students for the 2025/2026 academic session\n\n21 hours ago\n\nExclusive\n\nInsecurity in Nigeria: Were suspects linked to Oyo school abduction arrested in Ibadan? Police speak\n\n19 hours ago\n\nFull list: UAE suspends issuing visas to 3 African countries, gives reason\n\n17 hours ago\n\nDoris Ogala rushed to hospital after sudden collapse during political engagement\n\n16 hours ago"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://nigerianflightdeck.com/air-peace-airlifts-55m-passengers-in-8-years-commits-to-fleet-modernization-routes-expansion-in-2023/",
    "text": "Air Peace airlifts 55m passengers in 8 years, commits to fleet modernization, routes expansion in 2023 - NigerianFLIGHTDECK\n\nSign in\n\nAdvert & Editorial Policy\n\n- Advert Rates\n- Editorial Policy & House Style\n\n- Airline Fleet & Routes\n- Cargo/Handling\n- Other Transportation News\n\n- Explore\n- Points of View\n\nSign in\n\nWelcome!Log into your account\n\nyour username\n\nyour password\n\nForgot your password?\n\nPassword recovery\n\nRecover your password\n\nyour email\n\nSearch\n\nWednesday, May 27, 2026\n\n- Sign in / Join\n\nSign in\n\nWelcome! Log into your account\n\nyour username\n\nyour password\n\nForgot your password? Get help\n\nPassword recovery\n\nRecover your password\n\nyour email\n\nA password will be e-mailed to you.\n\nHome Airline Fleet & Routes Air Peace airlifts 55m passengers in 8 years, commits to fleet modernization,...\n\n- Airline Fleet & Routes\n\nAir Peace\n\nAdvertisement\n\nAir Peace has announced passenger figures of 55,821,258 in the last eight years of its commencing flight operations with renewed promises to provide seamless domestic, regional and international connections to Nigerians and other Africans through strategic route expansion, increased network options and modern fleet expansion.\n\nChief Operating Officer, Air Peace, Oluwatoyin Olajide, stated that airlifting over 55 million passengers in just eight years is a giant stride and a testament to the steady growth trajectory of the airline.\n\nShe stated that Air Peace recorded a passenger load of 52,859 in its launch year, 2014, and the number increased to eight million in 2019, adding that in December 2022, the airline airlifted 14,103,018 passengers.\n\nThe passenger figures, from its commencing operations till date are outlined as: 2014 – 52,859; 2015 – 661,875; 2016 – 1,832,526; 2017 – 3,538,102; 2018 – 6,060,329; 2019 – 8,491,758; 2020 – 9,634,235; 2021 – 11,446,556; and 2022 – 14,103,018\n\nOlajide said,”When we launched in 2014 with a record fleet of seven aircraft, we had a future-proof blueprint, driven by the vision to reduce the air travel burden of Nigerians through the provision of safe and world-class flight services.\n\n“To achieve this, we strategically invested in the right kind of aircraft, factoring business sustainability and customer experience while also hiring and training the best technical manpower to drive the process.\n\n“Now, we have 38 aircraft and are still expecting 8 brand new Embraer 195-E2s from our firm order in 2019 and additional 15 brand new Boeing 737 Max 8 and 10 Order, as we ramp up plans to strengthen our operations to serve our esteemed customers better. We are also expecting some of our aircraft undergoing maintenance overseas and by the second quarter this year, they will start returning.\n\n“We are extremely grateful to our customers and other critical stakeholders for their support and urge them to keep supporting Air Peace. We promise to further inter-connect more cities across Nigeria and beyond and improve in our service delivery”, Olajide asserted.\n\nThe Air Peace COO has also reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to providing seamless domestic, regional and international connectivity to Nigerians and other Africans through strategic route expansion, increased network options and modern fleet expansion.\n\nShe disclosed that the airline is planning to launch London, Israel, India, Congo Kinshasa, Togo and Malabo this year, adding that more frequencies will be added to Accra, Monrovia, Freetown, Banjul and Dakar routes with more connections introduced locally.\n\nAir Peace leads Nigeria’s aviation industry with a network of twenty domestic routes, seven regional routes and three international destinations, with an increasing, mixed modern fleet comprising Boeing 777, Boeing 737, Embraer 195-E2, Airbus 320, ERJ 145 and Dornier 328 Jet\n\n#### RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR\n\nAirline Fleet & Routes\n\n### 737-800 Acquisition Boosts Air Peace Fleet Expansion, Route Efficiency\n\nAirline Fleet & Routes\n\n### Barbados Route Records 284 Passengers on Air Peace’s Historic Direct Flight\n\nAirline Fleet & Routes\n\n### Pioneer Airline Gets AOC as Keyamo Hails Sub-National Aviation Growth\n\n© NigerianFLIGHTDECK — Elevating aviation news, business, and travel reportage across Nigeria and beyond. Stay informed. Fly ahead.\n\n#### EVEN MORE NEWS\n\n### AfDB Names Keyamo African Aviation Champion for $7bn Transformation Programme\n\n27th May 2026\n\n### Nigeria Aviation Debt Crisis: Why 30% Waiver Fails, FFSP Offers Relief\n\n27th May 2026\n\n### Nigeria Launches Aviation Leasing SPV to Ease Aircraft Access\n\n26th May 2026\n\n- Disclaimer\n- Privacy\n- Advertisement\n- Contact Us\n\n© NigerianFLIGHTDECK | All Rights Reserved. Design by Tommy Aniekeme"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://thenationonlineng.net/depleting-airlines-fleet-triggers-spike-in-local-airfares/",
    "text": "Depleting airlines’ fleet triggers spike in local airfares - The Nation Newspaper\n\nAviation\n\nJuly 8, 2024 by\n\n# Depleting airlines’ fleet triggers spike in local airfares\n\nReduction in the number of serviceable aircraft in the fleet of indigenous carriers has triggered a huge spike in airfares charged on local routes.\n\nThe development has led to a sharp spike in domestic flight fares in the country ranging from between N92, 000 and N250,000 for a one – hour flight and also depending on the time of booking.\n\nNigeria’s busiest route: Lagos-Abuja parades the highest fares, with passengers rushing to booking platforms days before their intended date of travel , only to meet prohibitive offers.\n\nBesides, the Lagos/Abuja rotation, air fares between Lagos and Asaba, Benin, Ilorin, Port Harcourt, Uyo , Calabar, Yola, Maiduguri, Kano, also fall within the prohibitive bracket.\n\n## Read Also: Hijack of PMS truck: Police confirm suspects as ex-officers\n\nFor instance, checks by The Nation at the close of business last Thursday, showed that flight booking on one of the major carriers, for intended travel on the Lagos/ Abuja route over the next four days, goes for between N123,900 and N238, 200.\n\nThe hike in airfares is the highest in the last few years , with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), pegging the average price of domestic flight tickets adding over N79,011 in a year.\n\nIn its 2023 Transport Fare Watch’ , an NBS report shows airfares increased by 21.48 percent (year-on-year ) from N65,041 in August 2022.\n\nThe NBS said the average fare paid by air passengers for a single flight ticket increased by 0.30 percent from N78,775 in July 2023, to N79,011.38 in August, 2023.\n\nWith the prevailing spike, many passengers are weighing options for their travel itinerary, including settling for only essential travels, or patronising other modes of transportation.\n\nBut, the speed that air travel offers and the prevailing challenge of insecurity in some parts of the country, experts say will continue to attract more throw put for aviation, not minding the cost.\n\nWhile contending with the prohibitive fare regime, passengers , investigations reveal, are getting more worried about the hurdles they have to go through securing limited seats on the diminishing number of serviceable aircraft in the fleet of active carriers.\n\nExperts say the escalating fares may not abate, unless airlines boost their fleet size.\n\nBut, oscillating exchange rate, increasing cost of operations, rising insurance premiums as well as limited access to capital may erect obstacles to airlines’ fleet increase ambition.\n\nThe shrinking number of active carriers, with DANA Air , NG Eagle Airlines and Rano Air and AZMAN Air not having stable flights due to on – going technical and safety audit by the NIgerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other considerations, investigations further reveal has resulted in the pulling out of service of several airplanes.\n\nThe vacuum created by the temporary absence of the some carriers, it was learnt, has created capacity issues for other operators , including: Air Peace, Aero Contractors, Ibom Air, Overland Airways , Green Africa Airways, Value Jets Airlines, Arik Air , Max Air, Rano Air and United NIgeria Airlines.\n\nAircraft in the fleet of existing carriers, according to regulatory data, is in the neighbourhood of about 91 airplanes.\n\nThis number includes aircraft that are either in flight, storage or undergoing major repairs at maintenance centres across the globe.\n\nInvestigations reveal that a few years ago, the entire domestic fleet hovered around 120 aircraft.\n\nAccording to data from the regulatory authority: Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), between 2015 and 2023 the number of aircraft – private/ charter – in the registry of the authority rose from 175 aircraft to 358.\n\nBut, the entire 358 fleet is not serviceable. While some of the airlines/ owners are no longer in business, forcing the aircraft to go into storage, some of the equipment have been repossessed by their lessors.\n\nThese aircraft criss-cross the increasing number of airports, which have moved from 27 to over 40.\n\nDomestic carriers, according to their umbrella body : Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), have consistently called on the Federal Government to find a pathway in navigating the myriad of challenges confronting the business.\n\nSpokesman of AON, and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, listed the challenges to include: scarcity of funds, devaluation of naira, inaccessibility to forex, expensive aviation fuel, multiple taxation, absence of maintenance facilities, otherwise known as MRO, unfriendly business environment, unpopular policies of government, among many others.\n\nIn the last few months, only few airplanes have been deployed to serve domestic route passengers as Nigerian airlines struggle with fleet reduction owing to high cost of maintenance.\n\nSome airlines have sent their aircraft on maintenance, but they are unable to return them due to the skyrocketing maintenance costs fueled by the foreign exchange crunch.\n\nOthers have been forced to ground their aircraft by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for their inability to send them for maintenance, thus reducing airplanes available for passengers.\n\nInvestigations revealed that every year, Nigerian airlines and private aircraft owners spend at least $2 billion on the maintenance of their aircraft fleet.\n\nA source hinted that a major carrier in 2022 alone spent over N76 billion repairing its aircraft overseas.\n\nSpeaking on the development, an industry analyst and Head, Strategy , Zenith Travels, Mr Olumide Ohunayo said reduction in the aircraft fleet of indigenous carriers is pushing many people out of the air travel pull because of high fares.\n\nHe said : “ If you walk up to any counter at the domestic airport terminals and you don’t have a minimum of N200,000, you may not get a seat.\n\n“Surprisingly, some of the airlines now tell you that they are selling premium economy to you, whereas there is nothing like premium economy. They sell you the business class and when you get onboard the aircraft, you’ll see that it is an economy class that has been sold to you.\n\n“The withdrawal of Dana’s license and the grounding of aircraft that can’t go on maintenance due to lack of foreign exchange have led to reduction in fleet size.\n\n“The grounding of Dana is a major problem. We need to find a way around this capacity problem and seats available. The passengers have not increased, but the supply of aircraft has dwindled. The passengers are really suffering during this period.” .\n\nInvestigations further reveal that Nigerian carriers pay higher insurance premiums due to the country’s perception as a high-risk operating environment.\n\nWhile Nigerian airlines pay eight percent to 10 percent of the value to insure an aircraft , operators in Ghana, South Africa and other African countries pay between two to three percent.\n\nInvestigations reveal that airlines operating in Europe and the United States pay 0.5 percent to one percent to insure the same aircraft.\n\nAirlines operating in Nigeria pay an average of $1 million annually to insure a B737-300 aircraft while those in Ghana or the US pay between $200,000 and $300,000 to insure the same aircraft type.\n\nConfirming the development, Managing Director of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi said indigenous carriers were navigating difficult bends in boosting their fleet due to financial constraints.\n\nHe said lack of stability in Nigeria’s financial system as it affects foreign exchange, is threatening the existence of local airlines.\n\nHe said the volatility of the economy and the blacklisting of Nigeria airlines by lessors has led to a situation where airlines are losing their aircraft to, what in aviation parlance is described as Aircraft on Ground (AOG).\n\nAOG, refers to aircraft that are temporarily off the skies due to repairs or spare parts to be replaced in it.\n\nBesides, he said Nigerian carriers find it difficult to acquire aircraft on dry lease basis because lessors have stopped giving aircraft to Nigerian operators in the long term.\n\nSpeaking on the development, Chief Executive Officer, Top Brass Aviation Limited, Captain Roland Iyayi lamented the lack of forex to indigenous carriers urging the government to consider an immediate remedy.\n\nHe said: “I know of a domestic carrier that has as many as 13 aircraft stuck at various maintenance facilities worldwide. The same operator, in the course of putting in bid for forex, has domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, $14 million worth of naira. A year and half on, he is yet to receive the dollars.\n\n“They have a situation where, because of this paucity or unavailability of forex, they are stuck with having about 30 percent of their operational fleet stuck with maintenance facilities worldwide.\n\n“That has depleted their fleet availability and schedule reliability. So, when you hear a lot of domestic airlines cancelling and delaying, it is not completely unconnected with the fact that they have not had forex available to be able to recover their aeroplanes from optimising operations.”\n\nHe opined that a state of emergency in aviation should be declared by the government.\n\nIyayi affirmed that if the nation keeps going at this rate, within the next three months, the domestic market’s fleet size might drop to as low as 35 to 50 per cent. Such an arrangement, he said, will translate to an increase in airfares.\n\n##### TAGS:\n\n## NEWS\n\n##### 'I’ll return to office job if music fails,' Shoday opens up on no tattoos 23 seconds ago\n\n##### ‎Jerry Oluranti's three books for launch in June 41 seconds ago\n\n##### Jide Awobona addresses backlash over insecurity comments 15 minutes ago\n\n##### 'Appreciate good health amid life’s setbacks' - Basketmouth advises 15 minutes ago\n\n##### Actor Stan Nze speaks on forgiving infidelity 15 minutes ago"
  }
]