Airlines Address TSC Debts Amid Union Disruptions

Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, revealed that airlines were actively servicing their Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) debts under repayment plans with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) before industrial actions by aviation unions disrupted this process. Speaking at the 30th annual conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) in Lagos, Okonkwo noted that airlines had been compliant with their TSC obligations prior to February 2026, when rising aviation fuel prices significantly impacted operations.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) sought relief from the Federal Government, which granted a 30% waiver on the charges. Following this, airlines established a structured repayment framework with the NCAA, allowing for direct withdrawals from joint accounts.

Okonkwo criticized the 5% TSC, arguing it adds financial burdens without providing adequate value, and called for continued discussions to resolve disputes rather than actions that disrupt operations. The TSC dispute escalated in August due to alleged non-remittance by some airlines, prompting an emergency meeting led by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.