As Nigerians opt for air travel over road journeys due to security concerns, domestic airfares have jumped significantly ahead of the Yuletide season. Popular routes like Lagos–Asaba, Lagos–Enugu, and Lagos–Owerri now command prices ranging from ₦151,786 to nearly ₦500,000. Experts attribute the increase to limited aircraft availability, rising operational costs, and multiple taxation, while authorities urge government support for local carriers.
Dr Alex Nwuba of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association noted, “Airline capacity shortfalls often contribute to higher fares during festive periods,” and former NCAA DG Harold Demuren added, “The Nigerian government needs to protect the local carriers. You can’t be wrong supporting your own.”
Domestic flight routes and prices
Lagos – Asaba
Air Peace: ₦337,500 (Dec 24–29)
Aero Contractors: ₦238,452 (Dec 24)
United Nigeria Airlines: ₦399,999
Abuja – Asaba
Air Peace: ₦335,500 (Dec 23–28), ₦240,000 (Dec 29–31)
United Nigeria Airlines: ₦335,499 – ₦360,499 (Dec 22–26)
Lagos – Enugu
Air Peace: ₦335,500 – ₦430,700 (Dec 28–29)
Lagos – Calabar
Aero Contractors: ₦151,786 – ₦187,976 (Dec 22–24)
Lagos – Benin
United Nigeria Airlines: ₦335,499 (Dec 22–30), +₦10,000 on Dec 31
Lagos – Port Harcourt
Air Peace: ₦335,500 (Dec 23–29)
Lagos – Anambra
United Nigeria Airlines: ₦399,999 (Dec 17)
Lagos – Owerri
United Nigeria Airlines: ₦335,499 – ₦499,998 (Dec 16)