Airline Shortage Not Responsible for Nigeria’s Aviation Problems – Expert

An aviation analyst, Gbenga Onitilo, has said that the challenges facing Nigeria’s aviation sector are not due to a lack of airline operators but rather the absence of a well-coordinated industry structure.

Onitilo made this observation while reacting to the recent issuance of an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) to the state-owned carrier, Enugu Air, by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

According to him, the industry continues to struggle with structural and operational issues that threaten the sustainability of airlines in the country. He identified key challenges such as unstable aviation fuel prices, lack of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, infrastructure deficiencies, and foreign exchange constraints affecting aircraft leasing, spare parts procurement, and heavy maintenance.

He explained that although the launch of new airlines like Enugu Air may generate excitement, the real problem in the sector is not the number of operators but the need for stronger and financially sustainable carriers.

Onitilo noted that Nigeria’s domestic aviation market is already crowded, with several airlines competing within a relatively small passenger base. He added that the NCAA recently confirmed issuing at least five new AOCs to prospective operators within the past year, while others are still undergoing certification.

Despite Nigeria’s population of over 220 million, he said domestic air travel remains heavily concentrated on a few key routes such as Lagos–Abuja, Lagos–Port Harcourt, Abuja–Port Harcourt, Lagos–Kano, and Abuja to some regional state capitals.

He further explained that about 65 per cent of domestic passenger traffic is concentrated on these major routes, particularly the busy Lagos–Abuja corridor.

Onitilo warned that when more than 10 airlines compete for the same passenger traffic, ticket revenues decline while operating costs remain high, making it difficult for airlines to remain profitable.

He stressed that airlines must achieve operational efficiency, scale, and strong financial backing to survive in the current environment.

According to him, the present structure of the industry shows fragmented fleets, weak financial positions, and multiple carriers competing for the same passengers.

He added that discussions surrounding new airlines like Enugu Air should focus more on the strategic value they bring to the aviation network rather than simply increasing the number of operators.

Onitilo said Enugu Air could make a meaningful impact if it focuses on opening underserved routes, improving regional connectivity, and linking secondary cities within West Africa.