Air Peace COO: Inquiry Into Our Airline Is Unjustified; Our Fares Are Reasonable

Air Peace COO: Inquiry Into Our Airline Is Unjustified; Our Fares Are Reasonable

Air Peace, Nigeria’s flag carrier, criticized the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Friday for its decision to initiate an investigation into the airline’s pricing, deeming it unnecessary.

Toyin Olajide, the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, maintained that Air Peace’s airfares are not exploitative and mentioned that the matter has been escalated to the presidency.

Reports surfaced last Sunday indicating that the FCCPC had begun an inquiry due to numerous consumer complaints regarding Air Peace, addressing concerns over poor service, alleged exploitative practices, and potential violations of consumer rights.

Following a meeting between the FCCPC and Air Peace in Abuja, it was confirmed that the agency is investigating the airline, contrary to earlier claims that suggested otherwise.

During a press conference in Lagos, Olajide stated that the ticket prices set by Nigerian airlines do not align with operational costs, questioning the criteria used to reach such conclusions.

She remarked, “We are fully aware of the FCCPC’s inquiry regarding allegedly exploitative fares. Many may not understand the implications of this. We’re discussing an investigation into the largest airline in the country that has continually gone above and beyond for Nigeria, proudly representing our nation on the global stage.”

“Before labeling an airline as exploitative, what knowledge do you have about airline operations? What determines the ticket price? It hinges on the operational cost of that flight.”

Olajide elaborated on the factors affecting operating costs, emphasizing the significant role of fuel prices. “Fuel currently constitutes about 60 to 65 percent of operational costs. In Nigeria, we are purchasing fuel at nearly N1,400 per liter. For a one-hour flight to Abuja, Owerri, or Port Harcourt, we require approximately 4,000 liters of fuel, which amounts to nearly N7 million.”

She added, “There are also funding costs, as aviation is a capital-intensive industry. This is a sensitive sector; you’re responsible for human lives.”

“You can’t take anything lightly; there are no second chances in the air. You must adhere to all regulations, safety protocols, and requirements for a safe flight.”

Olajide concluded, “They keep saying airlines are struggling. Why wouldn’t they? It’s simply unfair for Air Peace to be accused of charging exploitative fares. What criteria were used to define the term exploitative?

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