Flying has become far more accessible for Nigerians over the past decade, but affordability remains a stubborn challenge.

The average cost of air travel in Nigeria fell by 43% between 2011 and 2023, a new report by Oxford Economics for the International Air Transport Association (IATA), has revealed. But factoring economic indices like inflation, forex market and others, the cost of air travel in Nigeria has ballooned since 2024.

This dramatic fall has made it easier for many Nigerians to access flights for business, education, tourism, and trade. Airlines, through competition and operational improvements, have brought ticket prices down, making flying no longer the privilege of a few elites.

The Other Side of the Story

Despite the price reductions, the affordability gap remains wide. The report finds that the average Nigerian must work 38 days to afford a single flight ticket. By comparison, in developed economies, it takes just a fraction of that time.

“This statistic underscores the persistent challenge of income levels in relation to air travel,” the report noted. “While aviation has become technically cheaper, for millions of Nigerians it is still financially out of reach.”

Progress Meets Inequality

The contrast paints a double-edged picture: on one hand, Nigeria’s aviation industry has succeeded in lowering prices and expanding access; on the other, wider economic inequality keeps many citizens grounded.

Industry analysts argue that making air travel more affordable requires broader economic growth, rising wages, and policy interventions such as tax reforms and reduced operational costs for airlines.

Why it Matters

Affordable air travel is not a luxury, it is a driver of development. Easier access to flights opens doors for entrepreneurs, students, and small businesses, linking Nigerians to global opportunities.

As the report concludes: “Every percentage drop in airfare is not just a saving, it is an invitation to participate in the global economy.”