NANTA tackles foreign airlines over dollar-only ticket sales

The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) has renewed its criticism of certain foreign airlines for exclusively selling tickets in dollars and conducting city sales operations in Nigeria. Dr. Yinka Folami, NANTA's president, stated that these practices are not only a disrespect to Nigeria's sovereignty, but also violate rules set by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

While acknowledging that some airlines comply with the NCAA regulations, he urged others to follow suit to foster a more thriving aviation industry in Nigeria. Folami noted that only about three airlines out of over 30 operating in and out of Nigeria currently engage in dollar-only ticket sales, which accounts for approximately 10 percent of the market.

The relative stability of the naira, improved foreign exchange liquidity, and greater transparency in the remittance process have significantly altered the economic context that previously justified the practice. Folami emphasized that conducting transactions solely in foreign currency is unfair to local businesses and may create the perception that the naira holds little value.

He also highlighted that NANTA’s stance is not aimed at creating conflict with foreign airlines or the Federal Government, but rather to promote inclusiveness and stability in Nigeria's aviation and travel market. NANTA currently has approximately 4,000 members, including 1,621 IATA-certified members. Of these IATA-certified members, 1,274, or more than 80 percent, are Go-Lite members whose Billing Settlement Plan transaction wallets prohibit dollar sales.

This arrangement effectively excludes about 75 percent of NANTA members from direct trade with the airlines.