Aviation Expert Supports FCCPC, Accuses Airlines of Exploiting Passengers

The Managing Director of Belujane Konzult, Chris Aligbe, has defended the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) over its probe into domestic airline fares, dismissing criticisms as a misunderstanding of the law.

Aligbe spoke amid controversies surrounding allegations of price-fixing by domestic airlines during the high travel season last December. He stated that the FCCPC acted within its legal mandate, describing the sharp airfare hikes as unjustifiable and not backed by factors such as rising Jet A1 fuel costs or new taxes, as claimed by the airlines.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) had previously challenged the FCCPC’s interim report, arguing that the commission lacked competence in airline economics and that its findings could threaten the survival of domestic carriers.

Despite the disagreement, the FCCPC proceeded to indict five unnamed indigenous airlines and announced plans to impose sanctions in line with existing laws. The commission also intends to engage forensic experts to examine the alleged price-fixing practices.

Speaking to The Guardian in Lagos, Aligbe emphasized that while the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) regulates the aviation sector, the FCCPC functions as a cross-sectoral competition and consumer protection authority, with jurisdiction to intervene in anti-competition cases across industries, including aviation.

He added that the FCCPC’s authority, established by an Act of the National Assembly, has been reinforced by judicial endorsements, including those from the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

Responding to claims that the FCCPC lacked aviation expertise, Aligbe said the arguments were unfounded, noting that former FCCPC Chief Executive Officer Babatunde Irukera contributed to drafting the commission’s founding legislation, ensuring continuity of institutional knowledge.

Aligbe further accused domestic airlines of exploiting passengers during peak periods by delaying the opening of booking portals, which forces last-minute ticket purchases at inflated prices. He dismissed airline claims that aircraft unavailability caused these delays, stating that proper planning should ensure fleet readiness ahead of high-demand seasons.