Domestic airlines navigate information gaps, proxy woes, soaring operation costs
Airlines attribute the lack of information exchange between passengers and airlines during delays or reschedules to third-party involvement. In a meeting convened under the Airline Operators of Nigeria, they engaged with Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo. The Minister assured the enforcement of compensation as outlined in the NCARs.
Allen Onyema, Vice President of AON, emphasised the simplicity of rescheduling for Nigerian airlines, stating, “Nigerian airlines have the app; once a flight is delayed, a push of a button reschedules it, sending notifications to passengers.”
He expressed concern about proxy ticket purchases, noting, “Most passengers buy tickets through agents or friends, who often input their contact information instead of the actual ticket user.” AON’s Public Relations Officer, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, shed light on the impact of Jet A1 costs transferred to passengers. “The government should investigate the culprits involved in racketeering. The Jet A1 cost includes numerous mark-ups, burdening the customers and flying public.”
Airlines reiterated their forex challenges, emphasizing its role in fuel purchase, maintenance, and other operational aspects.
