The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has ranked Nigeria among the most expensive countries globally for airline operations, citing high operational costs that continue to strain local carriers.
The organisation raised the concern during its Annual General Meeting held in Brazil, where its Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Al-Awadhi, highlighted the persistent financial pressures facing airlines operating in Nigeria.
Despite ongoing reforms in the aviation sector led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Al-Awadhi noted that airlines in the country still struggle with heavy cost burdens that affect profitability and competitiveness.
He explained that excessive taxes, regulatory charges, and operational expenses remain major challenges across the region, with Nigeria standing out as one of the most difficult markets in terms of operating costs.
To address the situation, he called on ECOWAS member states to implement a proposed 25 per cent reduction in aviation taxes and charges to help ease pressure on airlines.
According to him, such a reduction would lower travel costs, boost passenger demand, and improve airline competitiveness within West Africa.
Industry stakeholders have also consistently argued that reducing taxes and charges is essential for making air travel more affordable and improving regional connectivity.
