Nigerian airlines beg FG to scrap 5% ticket charge, seek flat fee alternative

Airline operators in Nigeria have appealed to the Federal Government to resolve the controversy over the five percent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) imposed by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The plea came from Dr Allen Onyema, Chairman and CEO of Air Peace Limited and Vice President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), at the 30th annual conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) held in Lagos today, September 11, 2026.

Oyema stated that the current system requiring airlines to remit five percent of every ticket's cost as TSC is putting further financial pressure on already distressed operators. He advocated replacing the percentage-based charge with a fixed flat-rate fee attached to each ticket, arguing this would make payments more predictable and reduce the financial burden on airlines.

The AON Vice President added that a more amicable tax and charges regime would protect airlines, aviation agencies and passengers, while helping to reduce the high mortality rate of Nigerian carriers. He specifically appealed for President Tinubu's intervention, citing the president's willingness to listen and act when presented with the impact of policies on indigenous businesses.

Oyema expressed confidence that meeting with President Tinubu could spark "a new revolution in the airline industry" because "Mr. President abhors anything capable of affecting indigenous businesses that provide jobs for the people adversely."

The outcome of this appeal could significantly affect airline operating costs, potential ticket prices for passengers, and the overall stability of Nigeria's aviation sector.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/11/airlines-beg-nigerian-govt-to-resolve-5-ticket-sales-charge-row/