“Whatever ticket price you are seeing that looks cheap must either be a promo fare or because the rate of exchange has stabilised”
International airfares from Nigeria to Europe have dropped significantly, driven by a stronger naira and ongoing airline promotions. British Airways recently offered a premium economy ticket to London for just $300, while other airlines have introduced similar deals to spur sales.
Exchange rate appreciation—from N1,900/$1 in 2024 to around N1,400/$1—has contributed to the decline. Economy return tickets from Lagos to European destinations now cost between N1.2 million and N2 million, compared to N2–N3 million last year.
“Air fares are driven by exchange rates… and this is low season,” said Susan Akporaiye, former NANTA president. She warned fares could rise during the high season.
Business class fares have also eased, with Lagos–London tickets now between N5–N6.2 million, down from N9 million.
Alex Nwuba of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association noted Europe’s airline-friendly ecosystem allows lower fares, unlike Nigeria’s high-cost environment.
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