Airlines Reject FCCPC's Price Manipulation Claims for 2025

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have dismissed claims made by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) regarding alleged manipulation of domestic ticket prices during the December 2025 festive season. AON spokesperson Professor Obiora Okonkwo stated that the FCCPC's interim report suggested a pattern of price manipulation, which the AON disputes, arguing that the commission lacks the technical expertise to interpret airline pricing structures.

Okonkwo explained that airline fares are influenced by various operational variables, including maintenance, aircraft availability, insurance obligations, airport charges, and currency fluctuations. The FCCPC's investigation was prompted by public complaints about sharp fare hikes, particularly in the South East and South South regions, where ticket prices reportedly exceeded N350,000.

Dr. Alex Nwuba, president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria, noted that fare surges during the festive season are a recurring pattern driven by market forces rather than government policies, a sentiment echoed by Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo.