Domestic Airlines Criticize FCCPC Over Price-Fixing Claims

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has criticised the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) following its interim report alleging domestic airlines manipulated ticket prices during the 2025 yuletide period.

AON spokesperson and United Nigeria Airline Chairman, Obiorah Okonkwo, described the FCCPC’s claim as “harmful to the survival of airlines” and based on a “flawed understanding” of industry economics.

Okonkwo emphasized that while domestic airlines respect government institutions, they reject conclusions not grounded in operational realities. He noted that the commission lacks the professional expertise to determine how airline prices are fixed and accused the FCCPC of “playing to the gallery.”

During the Yuletide season, some domestic airlines increased ticket prices on routes to the South-East and South-South regions by over 131%, reflecting higher operational costs during peak travel periods.

AON urged that future investigations consider the complexities of airline operations to ensure policies and enforcement measures support, rather than hinder, the industry’s sustainability.