As the festive season approaches, airfares to the South-East and South-South regions of Nigeria have surged to unprecedented levels, with some one-way tickets rising by over 100 percent. Domestic airlines have significantly increased prices due to the high demand for tickets during the yuletide period, leaving many travelers frustrated and stranded. Economic challenges in the country have compounded the situation, making airfare hikes more burdensome for passengers.
A flight search on Air Peace’s booking platform revealed stark price increases. For instance, a one-way economy ticket from Lagos to Asaba, Delta State, which cost N97,400 on December 5, escalated to N287,800 by December 18. Similarly, flights from Abuja to Asaba rose from N95,400 to N285,800 within the same timeframe. This trend persists across various routes, with flights to Benin, Calabar, Uyo, and Port Harcourt experiencing similar price hikes.
The South-East region fares have been particularly shocking. Air Peace’s ticket prices from Lagos to Anambra jumped from N114,400 on December 6 to an astounding N381,100 by December 17, before stabilizing at N285,800 from December 21 to 29. Flights from Lagos to Enugu rose from N95,000 to N285,800 by December 19, while fares to Owerri skyrocketed to N381,000 by December 29.
Even the South-South destinations have not been spared. Flights to Uyo from Lagos were N145,000 as of December 8, but by December 15, they will increase to N202,100. Abuja to Uyo flights will rise to N238,000 by December 22. For Lagos to Port Harcourt and Abuja to Port Harcourt, tickets climbed from N95,400 to N285,800 by December 19.
Despite these increases, Aero Contractors has announced a contrasting approach by reducing ticket fares to an average of N80,000 across all its domestic routes. According to the airline’s Managing Director, Ado Sanusi, this gesture is aimed at easing the burden on Nigerian travelers during these challenging economic times while still ensuring moderate profitability for the company.
Passenger Reactions: Mixed Feelings and Tough Decisions
Passengers have expressed frustration and disappointment over the sharp increase in airfares. For many, the cost of flying home has become prohibitive, forcing them to reconsider their travel plans.
A Lagos-based mother of four, Mrs. Nkechi Joshua, lamented that the cost of flying her family to Owerri would exceed N1.4 million. “Where do I get the funds to cook chicken on Christmas and New Year days?” she said, deciding to forgo the trip and celebrate in Lagos instead. Another traveler, Mr. Chukwuma Obiagazie, called on the Federal Government to intervene, describing the airfare hikes as a significant dampener on the festive spirit.
Road Transport: A Viable Alternative?
With airfares becoming unaffordable, many Nigerians are turning to road transportation. However, transporters have hinted at potential fare increases due to fluctuating fuel prices and the yuletide rush.
Currently, average fare prices from Abuja to South-East destinations range from N9,000 to N25,000. For example, a trip from Abuja to Onitsha costs N25,000, while Abuja to Owerri is priced at N12,000. However, fares are expected to rise closer to Christmas.
Transport operators at Abuja’s Utako Park noted that prices would depend on fuel costs and demand. Zion Akpan, a driver, predicted increases of around N10,000 per route, while another driver, Ele Akpan, explained that night buses charge premium rates for air-conditioned travel.
Passengers who prefer to travel early in the month to avoid the holiday rush expressed relief at the stable fares. “I prefer to travel now because December prices are unpredictable, and there’s often fuel scarcity,” said Emmanuel Udo, a passenger heading to Anambra.
Transport Companies Brace for Holiday Increases
Peace Mass Transit, a leading transport company, has also kept fares steady for now, but staff confirmed that prices could rise as high as N28,000 for some routes by mid-December. For instance, trips to Aba currently cost between N19,000 and N25,000, depending on the departure park, while fares to Awka range between N17,000 and N22,000.
Transporters are also watching closely for possible government interventions. However, no company has confirmed plans to participate in any price slash initiative.
Economic Strain Meets Festive Cheer
The yuletide season, traditionally a time of reunions and celebrations, is shaping up to be a challenging one for many Nigerians. The combination of skyrocketing airfares and fluctuating road transport costs has left travelers grappling with tough choices.
As the demand for transportation rises, airlines and road transport operators are likely to increase prices further, making travel a luxury few can afford. For now, many are holding out hope for fuel price stability or government intervention to bring relief to the millions of Nigerians looking to journey home for the holidays.
