Onyema Warns Many Nigerian Airlines Could Collapse Within 30 Days

Air Peace chairman Allen Onyema has warned that many Nigerian domestic airlines could go out of business within 30 days if the Federal Government does not address the pressure on the aviation sector.

Onyema, who is also vice-chairman of the Airline Operators of Nigeria, said airlines are facing serious survival threats in a business he described as capital-intensive and difficult to sustain.

Punch and Vanguard reported that he spoke on Wednesday in Lagos at the launch of Pathways, Pilgrimage & Destiny, a biography of Med-View Airline founder Muneer Bankole. He said the industry needed urgent government attention to prevent more operators from failing.

Vanguard reported that Onyema also criticised aviation unions over the dispute around the five percent Ticket Sales Charge. He warned that if unions picket any airline over the issue, other domestic carriers could suspend operations in response.

The warning adds to long-running concerns over high operating costs, access to foreign exchange, airport charges and aircraft maintenance costs. For passengers, any major airline shutdown would likely mean fewer routes, higher fares and more disruption.

Sources: Punch and Vanguard.