The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has dismissed claims by a domestic airline that it pays eighteen different taxes to the regulator, describing the allegation as inaccurate and misleading.

The clarification came on the heels of a media report quoting the airline to have attributed the recent airfare increase to the charges paid to the regulator and other service providers in the industry.

In response, the Authority invited all domestic operators to a meeting to address the issue, alongside broader concerns about flight disruptions and passenger welfare.

At the meeting, all airline operators collectively affirmed that no domestic airline pays eighteen taxes to the NCAA, according to the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the NCAA, Mr. Michael Achimugu.

Achimugu in a post on his social media page emphasized that such a narrative is false and should not be used to rationalize rising airfares.

The NCAA further disclosed that the discussion also focused on improving customer service, particularly the need for timely and transparent communication with passengers during flight delays and cancellations.

Operators reaffirmed their commitment to comply fully with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, which outlines passenger rights and airline obligations.

The Authority added that it will continue to engage with the industry to enhance accountability, consumer protection, and service delivery across the aviation sector.

Daily Trust reports that there have been widespread concerns over the hike in fares with a one-way trip soaring to N500,000.

During the week, the Senate had summoned the aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, to provide clarification on the hike in flight tickets within Nigeria. (Weekend Trust)