The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has clarified that its invitation to Air Peace is for an inquiry into the airline’s pricing methodology and to address consumer complaints, not an investigation.
The Director of Surveillance and Investigation at the FCCPC, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, made this clarification during a meeting with Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, and his team in Abuja on Tuesday.
Adeyinka emphasized that the inquiry is aimed at understanding Air Peace’s pricing methodology and addressing consumer complaints, adding that neither the airline nor its chairman is under investigation.
Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Onyema, commended the FCCPC for the inquiry, stating that it is a step in the right direction to ensure the sustainability of the aviation industry in Nigeria.
He lamented that the fare regime in Nigeria is not commensurate to the cost of putting an aircraft in the air, leading to frequent airline failures.
Dr. Onyema highlighted the challenges faced by airlines in Nigeria, including high interest rates on loans, insurance costs, and volatility in aviation fuel prices.
He noted that these costs, combined with the need to replace parts and equipment, make it difficult for airlines to break even.
The Air Peace Chairman also emphasized the importance of flight safety, stating that it is a pre-condition for the airline’s operations rather than just a priority.
He expressed his commitment to the industry, citing his love for Nigeria and his philanthropic efforts to protect the country’s image during critical times.
