Why We Are Investigating Air Peace - FCCPC Speaks Out Amid Allegations of Exploitative Practices

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has reaffirmed its commitment to investigating Air Peace over allegations of exploitative pricing practices. In a statement on Sunday, Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC's Director of Corporate Affairs, stated that the commission would not be deterred by any form of blackmail or intimidation as it carries out its statutory mandate to protect consumer rights.

The FCCPC began investigating Air Peace following complaints from passengers and industry stakeholders about exorbitant fare hikes for advance bookings on domestic routes. Reports allege that the airline charges significantly higher prices compared to competitors, raising questions about transparency and fairness.

Among the allegations are claims that Air Peace suggested an "ideal" fare of 500,000 to 700,000 for a one-hour domestic flight-figures that consumers argue are unjustifiable. According to petitions submitted to the FCCPC, fueling a Boeing 737-500 for a one-hour flight costs approximately 4 million, far less than the revenues generated from the current ticket prices.

In a press conference on Friday, Air Peace denied the allegations, calling them damaging and unwarranted. The airline also argued that only aviation regulatory agencies have the jurisdiction to examine its operations. However, the FCCPC refuted this claim, citing sections of the FCCPA (Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018) that grant it the authority to investigate pricing practices across all sectors, including aviation.

Ijagwu emphasized that passengers, as consumers, have inalienable rights protected under the FCCPA. He stated, "No amount of cowboy tactics or blackmail will stop the commission from investigating and addressing the allegations against Air Peace."

Passenger grievances extend beyond ticket pricing. Recent complaints accuse Air Peace of arbitrary flight cancellations without compensation, excessive surcharges for rescheduling, and prolonged delays that disrupt travel plans.

On November 29, passengers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport protested after a four-hour delay on an Abuja-Lagos flight, causing unrest that required intervention by security forces.

The FCCPC reiterated its commitment to ensuring that pricing practices in the aviation sector remain competitive and non-exploitative. "Section 17(e) of the FCCPA mandates the commission to carry out necessary inquiries to safeguard consumer interests," Ijagwu noted.

The agency also expressed concern over allegations that Air Peace influences other airlines to increase fares, a practice that undermines fair competition and harms consumers.

Analysts believe this investigation is a litmus test for consumer protection in Nigeria. The outcome could set a precedent for how airlines and other service providers are held accountable for unfair practices.

Passengers and advocacy groups are closely watching the FCCPC's actions, hoping for reforms that will prioritize affordability, transparency, and accountability in the aviation sector.

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