MANY AIRLINES RISK COLLAPSE WITHIN 30 DAYS, ONYEMA WARNS

Chairman of Air Peace and Vice Chairman of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Allen Onyema, has warned that several Nigerian airlines could collapse within the next 30 days if urgent steps are not taken to address the challenges facing the aviation industry.
Onyema attributed the situation to the rising cost of operations, high aviation fuel prices, foreign exchange constraints, multiple taxes, and other economic pressures that continue to threaten the survival of local carriers.
He said many domestic airlines are struggling to remain operational despite efforts to sustain flight services, warning that the industry is approaching a critical point.
According to him, the collapse of more airlines would have serious consequences for Nigeria’s economy, including job losses, reduced connectivity, and setbacks to business and tourism activities.
Onyema called on the Federal Government to introduce immediate intervention measures, including policies that will reduce operating costs, improve access to foreign exchange, and create a more favourable business environment for airline operators.
He also urged aviation regulators and other stakeholders to work together to ensure the sustainability of indigenous airlines, stressing that a strong aviation sector is essential for national economic growth.
The airline executive reaffirmed the commitment of local operators to providing safe and reliable air transport services but stressed that urgent government support is necessary to prevent a major crisis in the aviation industry.