The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to slash aviation taxes and airport charges by half as part of an urgent effort to ease the rising cost of domestic air travel during the festive period.
The resolution followed a motion adopted during plenary, in which lawmakers warned that escalating ticket prices were placing significant pressure on travellers already burdened by high fuel costs, inflation and persistent insecurity along major road corridors. Members argued that a temporary reduction in statutory fees would offer immediate relief to passengers and help stabilise demand during the end-of-year travel surge.
According to the House, fees imposed by aviation agencies and airport authorities have contributed to the rising cost of flight operations, compounding the effects of volatile aviation fuel prices and currency depreciation. Legislators said that reducing these charges by 50 percent would lower airlines’ operating costs and create room for operators to adjust fares downward.
The motion also highlighted the growing dependence on air travel as road insecurity continues to affect long-distance movement across several regions. With more Nigerians opting for flights during the festive season, lawmakers said the government must take targeted steps to ensure affordability and prevent further strain on households.
The House directed its aviation committees to engage the Ministry of Aviation and relevant agencies to assess the cost implications and work out implementation strategies. The Federal Government is expected to review the recommendation as part of broader measures to support the aviation sector and protect consumers during peak travel periods.
