Air Peace Hikes Lagos-Abuja Ticket to N200,000 from November
Starting November 1, 2024, Air Peace will raise the cost of a one-way flight ticket from Lagos to Abuja to N200,000, marking a significant fare increase in Nigeria’s domestic aviation market.
The decision comes as airlines grapple with the ongoing economic challenges affecting the aviation sector, prompting many to adjust their prices. Passengers have expressed frustration, with some opting for road transport over increasingly expensive air travel.
An investigation revealed that Air Peace’s new fare is the highest among domestic airlines. While Air Peace charges N200,000 or more for a one-way trip, competitors offer relatively lower prices: Aero’s tickets range from N94,000 to over N109,000, Arik Air’s fares are between N104,405 and N139,292, and Ibom Air charges from N124,000 to over N133,000.
The steep price hike has resulted in many passengers being stranded at airports, struggling to secure flights to their desired destinations. The Lagos-Abuja route, known for its high traffic, has been particularly affected, as travelers find it increasingly challenging to obtain seats.
An anonymous Air Peace official attributed the fare increase to the deteriorating economic climate in Nigeria, highlighting the financial strain on airlines. “If you look at the ticket breakdown, you’ll see we are bleeding as an aviation company, with operational costs skyrocketing,” the source explained. “High taxes imposed by the government leave airlines with little choice but to raise fares.”
Efforts to reach Air Peace’s Chief Operating Officer, Toyin Olajide, for further comments were unsuccessful, as she did not respond to calls or text messages.
Businessman Adeleke Aina, a frequent air traveler, expressed his concerns over the soaring ticket prices. “With airfares skyrocketing daily without clear justification beyond economic issues, I will have no choice but to switch to road transport,” he lamented. “This situation is devastating; fuel prices have soared, and the government appears indifferent to the crisis. I fear for our country’s future.”
