Aviation fuel price remains high in Nigeria, despite the fall of crude oil price on the international market; and it is a source of concern to airlines.
Both local and international carriers have urged the government to reduce the price in the interest of the industry.
Aviation watchers believe air fares are high because of the high cost of doing business, citing aviation fuel, also known as Jet A1, which costs between N160 and N180 per litre depending on the seller and airport of purchase.
It is cheaper is Lagos because there are many marketers, but high in places such as Enugu, Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Kano, where there are fewer sellers.
Association of Foreign Airlines Representatives in Nigeria (AFRAN) President, Kingsley Nwokoma, urged the government to rein in marketers to reduce the price in line with global trends and ensure smooth flights in and out of the country.
But getting marketers to reduce the price of aviation fuel is a tough battle because it is deregulated and only one firm reportedly has the sole right to import the product, which it sells to retailers.
“It’s very unfortunate. The price of Jet A1 remains high in Nigeria even though oil prices have fallen drastically all over the world,” Nwokoma lamented.
“We are dealing with world standard and it should be world standard; prices have been reduced. It must be applicable here in Nigeria. This falling oil price should also trigger a reduction in fares so that more people can fly.”
Nwokoma also sought the expansion of the cargo apron at the Lagos Airport, saying it is frustrating for airlines to park cargo aircraft at the international wing because of inadequate apron at the local wing.
“We have an airline that brings in goods and is made to park at the international airport in Lagos. The apron is so small and we have had issues and incidents involving planes.
“The cargo apron is an eyesore because that apron has been there since the airport was built. We have been crying and calling for its expansion for safety reasons.”