Following the crash of the Naira and the consequent high cost of air tickets, along with the increased expense of maintaining aircraft, it has been revealed that approximately 30 percent of aircraft in Nigeria have been grounded in the last two months.
Moreover, about 50 percent are expected to go out of service in the next month if adequate measures are not taken.
The CEO of United Nigeria Airline, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, spoke with journalists at the Opening of the 2024 Annual Retreat of United Nigeria Airlines, which also marked the third anniversary of the airline. He mentioned that aircraft parts prices are skyrocketing, and the number of passengers is diminishing.
He explained that airline operators depend primarily on the large sales of tickets to fuel the aircraft and pay service providers. Professor Okonkwo expressed concern about the fluctuating Naira value affecting ticket prices, potentially making them unaffordable for the majority of Nigerians.
READ ALSO:Naira tumbles to all time low of N1,825/$ at parallel market
He emphasized the importance of safety, stating that operators do not compromise on safety. However, due to the rising costs and exchange rate challenges, aircraft capacity has reduced by about 30 percent in the past two months. If the situation persists, up to 50 percent of aircraft may be out of service in the next month.
Addressing the airline staff, Professor Okonkwo acknowledged the industry’s tremendous challenges, noting that the aviation sector reflects the difficulties faced by other sectors in Nigeria. Despite these challenges, he highlighted the growth of United Nigeria Airline.
Regarding technology deployment, the United Nigeria CEO asserted that Nigerian airline operators are up-to-date with aviation technology. Several operators, including United Nigeria Airline, are International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Service Audit (IOSA) certified, demonstrating compliance with global technology standards.
He urged the Nigerian government to recognize aviation as a critical sector and invest in it, similar to investments in other sectors like land transportation, agriculture, and oil and gas.
and then