Airlines beg Nigerian Govt to resolve 5% ticket sales charge row

Airline companies in Nigeria have sought intervention from the Federal Government to address the ongoing dispute surrounding the five percent Ticket Sales Charge, TSC. Dr. Allen Onyema, the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace Limited and Vice President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria, urged the government's involvement during the 30th annual conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents held in Lagos.

According to Onyema, the present system, where airlines contribute five percent of every ticket sale as TSC to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, is causing financial strain on already struggling operators. He proposed replacing the percentage-based charge with a flat-rate fee per ticket, arguing that this would provide more stable revenue and lessen the financial pressure on airlines.

Onyema emphasized that a mutually acceptable tax and charges regime would safeguard airlines, aviation authorities, and passengers, as well as contribute to reducing the high death rate among Nigerian carriers. He expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be receptive to their concerns, stating that the president's dedication to supporting indigenous businesses that generate jobs would likely lead to a positive outcome.