Nigeria TV Info 

Yuletide: Local Flight Fares Break N300,000 Mark as Demand Surges

As the Yuletide season approaches, domestic air travelers across Nigeria are grappling with a sharp spike in local flight fares, with economy class tickets on major routes now exceeding N300,000. The surge has been attributed to increased festive-season demand, limited seat availability, high operational costs, and persistent fuel price challenges confronting airlines.

Checks across several airline booking platforms show that one-way tickets from Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Enugu, and Uyo now range between N280,000 and N350,000, depending on the date and airline. The situation is expected to worsen as Christmas draws nearer, especially on eastern and southern routes traditionally known for last-minute passenger rush.

Airlines say the increase is driven by the high cost of aviation fuel (Jet A1), fluctuating foreign exchange rates affecting aircraft maintenance, and the heavy load of holiday traffic. Some carriers have also reduced flight frequencies due to maintenance backlogs, further tightening seat supply.

Passengers, however, have expressed frustration, accusing airlines of exploiting the season to impose unreasonable fares. Travel agents say many Nigerians are now exploring alternatives such as road transportation or adjusting travel dates to beat peak-season pricing.

Industry analysts predict that unless fuel prices stabilize and more aircraft return to operation, high fares may persist into early 2026. They also warn that the continuous rise in domestic airfare may lead to a decline in air travel and increased pressure on already strained road networks.