Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, has revealed that Nigerian airline operators are seeking an audience with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to discuss mounting challenges in the aviation industry, particularly multiple taxes, regulatory charges and rising operational costs.
Speaking during an interview, Onyema said domestic airlines are facing severe financial pressure due to soaring aviation fuel prices, high-interest loans and various government-imposed charges, which continue to threaten the survival of operators across the country.
According to him, the challenges confronting Nigerian airlines are part of a broader global aviation crisis driven by geopolitical tensions and rising fuel costs. However, he noted that local operators are particularly vulnerable because of the country’s harsh operating environment and expensive borrowing conditions.
Onyema lamented that more than 70 airlines have collapsed in Nigeria over the years, describing the country’s airline failure rate as one of the highest in the world. He warned that without urgent intervention, more carriers could face similar difficulties.
The Air Peace boss specifically criticised the five per cent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) collected by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, arguing that the levy places an unfair financial burden on airlines despite claims that it is paid by passengers.
He called on President Tinubu to establish an Aviation Taxes and Charges Review Committee to reassess levies imposed on airlines and create a more sustainable operating environment for the industry.
While commending the efforts of Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and the Federal Government to improve the sector, Onyema maintained that operators need direct engagement with the President to present their concerns and propose practical solutions.
He warned that the collapse of airlines would have far-reaching consequences, including massive job losses, reduced connectivity and financial risks for banks that have extended loans to aviation operators.
