By Charles Pemu 
LAGOS — Domestic airlines in Nigeria have drastically increased ticket prices to the South-East and South-South regions by up to 131%, months ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays. This significant fare hike, which takes effect from December 1, is already causing frustration among travelers who fear they may have to resort to road transportation despite security risks.
Major carriers such as Air Peace and United Nigeria have implemented the new pricing. A one-way economy ticket from Lagos to Asaba, for example, has jumped from N147,000 to N337,500. Similarly, flights to Enugu and Benin now cost up to N335,500, marking a steep rise from previous fares.
Airline operators have defended the price increases, citing the economic principles of demand and supply during peak periods. According to a trustee member of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Roland Iyayi, flights to the South-East during the holidays are typically one-way, meaning planes fly out full but return largely empty. To cover operational costs, airlines must price each outbound ticket to account for the entire round trip.
Other factors contributing to the high costs include the soaring price of aviation fuel (Jet-A1), which sells for as much as N1,100 per litre, as well as high insurance and maintenance fees.
Despite these explanations, many travelers are expressing their frustration. One passenger, Michael Onwusa, stated he would rather drive his family for the holidays to avoid the exorbitant fares. Another, Tina Ikwuogu, said she would resort to borrowing money to afford a flight rather than risk traveling by road.