The airline operator attributes the high cost of airfare to the numerous taxes imposed on the industry.

Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, has pointed out that the exorbitant airfares in Nigeria can be attributed to the numerous taxes imposed on each ticket, along with the significant increase in foreign exchange rates.

During a televised interview observed by BrandIconImage, Okonkwo emphasized that airlines in Nigeria are facing challenges due to the heavy tax burden and the unfavorable foreign exchange rate, currently standing at approximately N1,605.00 to one US dollar.

He expressed his concern that the current challenges are having a detrimental impact on local airlines. Operators are facing the difficulty of purchasing spare parts and fixing their aircraft in dollars, despite the fact that the cost of these parts has not increased abroad. He emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to rescue the industry, as the current foreign exchange regime may lead to further increases in ticket prices.

The number of taxes imposed on us is excessive; with each ticket sold, we face around 20 to 22 deductions, some of which are redundant. Despite our pleas for attention, no one seems interested in understanding the root of the problems and finding solutions. If nothing is done promptly, we fear that the situation will deteriorate further.

"We recently returned from a conference in South Africa organized by the International Air Travel Association (IATA), where it was highlighted that Nigeria still maintains the highest aviation service costs. Local airlines here are burdened with higher expenses compared to their counterparts in the Western world," he stated.