Airlines Seek Meeting With Tinubu Over Charges, Taxes

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has called for an urgent meeting between domestic airline operators and President Bola Tinubu to discuss taxes, charges and other challenges affecting the aviation industry.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE News on Monday, Onyema said airline operators wanted a direct audience with the President to explain issues threatening the survival of airlines in Nigeria.

According to him, while operators appreciate the support provided by the current administration, there is a need for government to better understand the difficulties confronting the sector.

“The time has come and I believe this government will listen. We are seeking an appointment with the President and we think the President should see us and hear from us,” Onyema said.

He warned that the collapse of any major airline could have serious economic consequences, including job losses and financial risks for lending institutions.

“We are patriotic citizens of this country. We appreciate what this government has done for us, but they need to listen more to us and get to know the pain points hitting these airlines.

“If any airline goes down, banks will take a hit and it will create massive job losses. A lot of people will be thrown into the unemployment market,” he stated.

Onyema stressed that airline operators wanted a direct conversation with President Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation to explain the challenges affecting their businesses without intermediaries.

A major concern raised by the Air Peace boss was the five per cent Passenger Service Charge imposed on airline tickets.

He argued that the levy places additional financial pressure on airlines and affects profitability.

“What is the truth? The truth we have to tell the President is that the five per cent Passenger Service Charge is a burden. They say it is the passenger that pays it, but we refuse to accept that explanation,” he said.

According to him, the amount deducted by regulators increases as ticket prices rise, further affecting airline revenues.

Onyema therefore urged the Federal Government to establish an Aviation Taxes and Charges Review Committee comprising government officials, aviation experts and airline representatives.

He said the committee would assess existing charges and recommend reforms aimed at improving the sustainability of the aviation industry.

The Air Peace CEO maintained that a comprehensive review of aviation taxes and charges was necessary to prevent further airline failures and strengthen the sector’s contribution to the economy.

He expressed optimism that the government would listen to stakeholders and implement measures that would support the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.