Domestic airline operators have called for an urgent meeting with President Bola Tinubu to discuss taxes and charges they say are threatening the survival of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The appeal was made by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, during an interview on ARISE News, where he spoke on behalf of concerns shared by operators in the sector.
According to Onyema, airlines appreciate the support provided by the Federal Government but believe there is a need for direct engagement with the President to explain the challenges confronting the industry.
He warned that the collapse of any airline could have far-reaching economic consequences, including job losses, financial strain on banks, and increased social problems linked to unemployment.
The Air Peace boss said operators want an opportunity to meet with the President and the Minister of Aviation to present their concerns firsthand and discuss possible solutions.
Among the major issues raised is the five per cent Ticket Sales Charge imposed on airline tickets. Onyema argued that the levy places additional financial pressure on operators in an industry where profit margins are already low.
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He explained that as ticket prices increase, the amount deducted as the charge also rises, reducing the revenue available to airlines.
To address the concerns, Onyema called on the Federal Government to establish a committee to review aviation taxes and charges. He suggested that the committee should include government officials, aviation experts, technocrats, and representatives of airline operators.
According to him, a comprehensive review of the charges would help tackle long-standing issues that have contributed to the difficulties and eventual collapse of several airlines in the country.
He maintained that greater collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders is necessary to ensure the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
