United Nigeria Airlines urges government to reduce aviation charges

Adedayo Olawuyi, the Chief Commercial Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, has called on the Nigerian Federal Government to reduce aviation charges and taxes to improve the affordability of air travel.

Speaking at the AeroWest conference in Lagos, Olawuyi highlighted several structural challenges facing the industry. He noted a significant currency mismatch where airlines generate revenue in Naira but face major expenses in foreign currency, including pilot training, simulator use, and aircraft maintenance due to a lack of local Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.

Olawuyi also cited rising operational costs, specifically mentioning a sharp increase in fuel prices. He stated that these financial pressures, combined with high financing costs, force airlines to absorb significant losses or pass costs on to consumers.