By Ayomide Otitoju
The International Air Transport Association has identified Nigeria as one of the most expensive countries in the world to operate an airline, citing high operational costs that continue to hinder the growth and sustainability of local carriers.
Speaking at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Brazil, Kamil Al-Awadhi said airlines operating in Nigeria face significant cost pressures despite ongoing reforms in the aviation sector.
Al-Awadhi acknowledged efforts by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to improve the industry, but noted that the operating environment remains challenging for airlines.
According to him, the high-cost structure has made it difficult for Nigerian carriers to remain competitive and profitable, limiting the sector’s capacity to achieve its full potential.
He said excessive taxes, charges and other operational expenses continue to weigh heavily on airlines across the region, with Nigeria ranking among the most difficult markets from a cost perspective.
To ease the burden on operators, Al-Awadhi urged member states of the Economic Community of West African States to adopt a proposed 25 per cent reduction in aviation taxes and charges.
He said the measure would help lower air travel costs, stimulate passenger traffic and enhance the competitiveness of airlines operating within West Africa.
Industry stakeholders have consistently argued that reducing taxes and regulatory levies is critical to making air travel more affordable and improving regional connectivity.
The IATA official’s remarks add to growing calls for governments across West Africa to create a more supportive operating environment for the aviation industry, which is widely regarded as a key enabler of trade, tourism and economic growth.
