Air travel in Nigeria remains largely out of reach for most citizens, despite a 43%  decline in real airfares between 2011 and 2023, according to a new report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The study, The Value of Air Transport to Nigeria, found that Nigerians must work an average of 37.6 days to afford a plane ticket. By comparison, global airfares have fallen by 70% over the past fifty years, making flying significantly more accessible in many regions.

IATA highlighted the limited penetration of aviation in Nigeria, where only 40 flights per 1,000 people were taken in 2023, a low level for a population exceeding 200 million. High ticket prices continue to restrict access to the economic and social benefits that aviation can provide.

Beyond affordability, the sector contributes directly and indirectly to Nigeria’s economy. The aviation industry employs 39,500 people and generates $702 million in direct output, equivalent to 0.2 percent of GDP. When indirect benefits—including supply chain activities, employee spending, and tourism—are included, total economic contributions rise to $2.5 billion, supporting roughly 216,700 jobs.

Tourism facilitated by air transport contributes $454.1 million to GDP and employs 66,600 people. International visitors spend an estimated $760.2 million annually on goods and services, highlighting aviation’s role in stimulating hospitality, tourism, and other service sectors.