Reasons for the collapse of these airlines are varied, but high operating costs, an unfriendly business environment, and a lack of support from the past government are all contributing factors.
Nigeria’s aviation sector has suffered massive attrition, with over 60 airlines folding since the 1990s—including former giants like Nigeria Airways, ADC Airlines, and Virgin Nigeria. Currently, only 23 carriers remain operational, many struggling with single-aircraft fleets amid skyrocketing fuel costs and regulatory pressures. The NCAA’s post-2000 crash mandate requiring multiple aircraft per operator has further strained surviving airlines.
Industry experts cite “quadrupled aviation fuel prices, poor management, and past government neglect” as primary collapse drivers. The sector’s decline mirrors broader economic challenges, with carriers like Bellview (2009) and Sosoliso (2006) vanishing despite once dominating domestic routes.
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