Nigerian Airlines Raise Ticket Prices Amid Rising Operational Costs

By Ene Rebecca

May 20, 2026

Domestic airlines in Nigeria have increased flight ticket prices as operators continue to grapple with rising operational expenses, particularly the soaring cost of aviation fuel and foreign exchange pressures.

Airline operators said the upward review in fares was driven by mounting industry challenges, including the sharp rise in the price of Jet A1 fuel, inflation, airport charges, and the high cost of aircraft maintenance and spare parts, many of which are paid for in foreign currency.

Industry stakeholders noted that ticket prices on several domestic routes have risen significantly in recent months, with some one-way fares now exceeding previous rates by more than 100 per cent. Reports indicated that routes connecting major cities such as Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt have witnessed some of the steepest increases.

Speaking on the situation, spokesperson for the Airline Operators of Nigeria and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, said airline operators were under severe financial pressure and could no longer sustain operations at older fare rates. He explained that the rising cost of fuel and other operational demands had made fare adjustments unavoidable.

Operators also warned that further increases could occur if economic conditions do not improve. According to industry figures, aviation fuel remains one of the largest components of airline operating costs in Nigeria, accounting for a substantial share of total expenses.

The increase in ticket prices has raised concerns among passengers, many of whom rely on air travel due to insecurity on some Nigerian highways and the need for faster intercity transportation. Lawmakers and consumer groups have previously questioned the sharp rise in domestic airfares and called for regulatory intervention to ease the burden on travellers.

Despite criticism from passengers, airline executives insist that current fares remain necessary to keep operators afloat in the face of rising taxes, fuel costs and exchange rate volatility. Some operators argued that Nigerian airlines continue to operate under difficult economic conditions compared to many global markets.