The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has named Nigeria among the most expensive countries globally for airline operations, citing persistently high costs that threaten the sustainability and growth of local carriers.
Speaking at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Brazil, Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, acknowledged ongoing reform
efforts by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. However, he noted that excessive taxes, charges, and operational expenses continue to undermine the competitiveness and profitability of Nigerian airlines.
Al-Awadhi highlighted that these cost pressures limit the aviation sector’s potential in the region. To ease the burden, he called on Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member countries to implement a proposed 25% reduction in aviation taxes and charges. Such a move, he said, would reduce air travel costs, boost passenger traffic, and strengthen the competitiveness of airlines across West Africa.
The appeal reinforces long-standing calls from industry stakeholders for governments to lower regulatory and tax burdens, making air travel more affordable and improving regional connectivity. A more supportive environment for aviation is seen as critical for advancing trade, tourism, and broader economic development in the region.
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