The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has initiated talks with foreign airlines to address the rising cost of flight tickets and enhance the overall air travel experience for Nigerian passengers.
The FG foreign airlines talks move is aimed at promoting affordable and accessible air travel, while also boosting the country’s tourism and economic development.
According to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, several factors contribute to the high cost of flight tickets, including:
- Limited Access to Affordable Aircraft Leasing: Nigerian airlines struggle to lease aircraft at competitive rates, forcing them to opt for costly leasing or outright purchase of aircraft, which ultimately affects ticket prices.
- Trapped Funds of Foreign Airlines: Foreign airlines have been unable to repatriate their earnings due to currency fluctuations, leading to a backlog of trapped funds.
- High Airport Taxes: Nigerian airports impose high taxes on airlines, which are then passed on to passengers in the form of higher ticket prices.
To address the issue of high fares, the government is engaging with foreign airlines to:
– *Clear Backlog of Trapped Funds*: The government has cleared the backlog of trapped funds, allowing foreign airlines to repatriate their earnings.
– *Reduce Airport Taxes*: The government is working to reduce airport taxes, which will help to lower ticket prices.
– *Promote Affordable Aircraft Leasing*: The government is exploring options to provide affordable aircraft leasing for Nigerian airlines.
In addition to addressing high fares, the government is also working to enhance the overall air travel experience for Nigerian passengers. This includes:
- Improving Airport Infrastructure*: The government is investing in airport infrastructure, including the renovation of terminals and the installation of modern navigation equipment.
- Enhancing Security Measures*: The government is strengthening security measures at airports, including the deployment of advanced security screening equipment.
- Passenger Rights*: The government is working to promote passenger rights, including the right to fair treatment and compensation for delayed or cancelled flights.
The Federal Government’s efforts to address high fares and enhance the air travel experience for Nigerian passengers are a step in the right direction. By engaging with foreign airlines and addressing the root causes of high fares, the government can help to promote affordable and accessible air travel, while also boosting the country’s tourism and economic development.