Several major domestic airlines have rejected claims of price fixing and anti-competitive conduct leveled by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, arguing that the watchdog’s interim report fails to account for the complexities of airline pricing.
Nijatravel report that the airlines stressed that ticket prices during peak travel periods, including the 2025 festive season, are driven by fleet capacity, aircraft availability, fuel costs, landing fees, and operational constraints, rather than collusion among carriers.
Airline executives said that patterns noted in the FCCPC’s interim analysis—such as similar fares across carriers—reflect standard yield management strategies, designed to align ticket prices with demand patterns, load factors, and route profitability. They emphasized that apparent fare clustering is common practice globally in the aviation sector.
The carriers further highlighted the impact of volatile economic conditions, including foreign exchange fluctuations and rising operational costs, which influence pricing decisions more than alleged anti-competitive behaviour.
Industry representatives also expressed concern that public dissemination of interim FCCPC findings may mislead travelers and distort perceptions of Nigerian domestic airline pricing practices. They urged that regulatory conclusions be based on comprehensive, route-level assessments rather than preliminary data.
The FCCPC launched its investigation following consumer complaints about sharp fare increases during the festive season, noting that some ticket prices appeared to outpace operational cost drivers. The commission has maintained that the probe is ongoing and is intended to ensure transparency and protect consumer interests.
Both domestic carriers and the FCCPC have signaled willingness to engage in further dialogue to clarify pricing practices. Travelers have been advised to monitor official announcements for verified updates on ticket pricing and regulatory outcomes.
The dispute underscores the challenges of regulating a rapidly growing aviation market in Nigeria, where demand fluctuations, operational constraints, and economic factors intersect to shape airline ticket prices.