Domestic airlines under the umbrella of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have intensified calls for a comprehensive review of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs), arguing that the current framework has become unsustainable due to rising operating costs, excessive taxes and charges, and changing realities in the aviation industry.

The operators say the review is necessary to address high operating expenses, strengthen safety standards, align regulations with global best practices, and support the long-term survival of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

The push follows mounting financial pressure on airlines, worsened by the recent Middle East crisis, which triggered a sharp increase in aviation fuel prices. According to the operators, the rising cost of operations has forced many airlines to rely on loans, while revenues from ticket and cargo sales are no longer sufficient to sustain their businesses.

AON is also advocating an end to the remittance of aviation agencies’ revenues to the Federal Government under the Treasury Single Account (TSA). The operators argue that funds generated within the aviation sector should be reinvested to improve infrastructure and services, in line with the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Speaking in an interview with Arise TV, Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Allen Onyema, described Nigeria as one of the most expensive countries in which to operate an airline.

He said excessive taxes and charges imposed on airlines have contributed to the collapse of many carriers over the years, noting that more than 70 Nigerian airlines have ceased operations.

Onyema also criticised the 5 per cent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) and Cargo Sales Charge (CSC), arguing that although they are presented as charges paid by passengers, they ultimately reduce airlines’ earnings because they are calculated as a percentage of ticket prices.

He called on President Bola Tinubu to establish an Aviation Taxes and Charges Review Committee comprising government officials, aviation experts and airline operators to reassess the current tax regime and recommend reforms that will make the industry more sustainable.

According to him, AON is seeking an audience with the President to present the challenges confronting the industry and propose solutions, expressing confidence that a review of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations would help reduce airline failures, protect jobs and strengthen the country’s aviation sector.