Flight fares to South-South and South-East Nigeria have surged as the festive season approaches, sparking frustration among travellers.
Over the past few days, passengers reported tickets reaching ₦350,000, triggering widespread outrage and concern over unfair pricing.
Flight Fares Spike
In response, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) launched an investigation on Friday to examine how airlines set fares on these routes.
FCCPC Investigates
According to FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the agency will determine whether the airlines’ pricing practices violate competition or consumer protection laws.
Moreover, the FCCPC highlighted that some airlines appear to coordinate prices or exploit high demand, particularly during this busy season.
The Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Tunji Bello, stated that the agency will take action whenever it finds evidence of consumer exploitation.
Read Also: Christmas Travel: Lagos–South-East Bus Fares Soar 20–30%
Earlier, Air Peace tried to prevent the FCCPC from reviewing its ticket prices, but the Commission insisted that the current investigation continues independently of that court case.
Seasonal Pressures
Meanwhile, aviation experts explained that seasonal demand and last-minute bookings naturally push fares higher.
Airlines apply a “bucket” pricing system, charging lower prices to early bookers and increasing costs as seats fill.
In addition, structural challenges—such as limited aircraft, high fuel costs, multiple charges, and a small flying population—further escalate ticket prices.
At the same time, Minister Festus Keyamo reminded the public that the government cannot regulate airfare because Nigeria’s aviation sector has been deregulated for decades.
Finally, as Christmas approaches, Nigerians continue to watch the FCCPC closely, hoping the investigation will ensure fairness and curb exploitative fare practices.
