Nigeria records 18.8 million flights as aviation market ranks fourth in Africa

Nigeria recorded 18.8 million flights and ranks as Africa’s fourth-largest aviation market, according to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, as reported by Premium Times Nigeria. FAAN said passenger traffic and airline capacity are expanding. The figures point to growth in the country’s aviation activity, although the available source material does not state the period covered, distinguish between domestic and international flights or provide a comparison with the other African markets.

The agency also said infrastructure constraints continue to limit Nigeria’s aviation potential. It did not identify the specific facilities or shortcomings involved in the supplied material. Operating costs were cited as another factor weighing on the sector.

The source did not provide a breakdown of those costs or say how they have changed, nor did it quantify their effect on airlines, airports or passengers. The report did not include further details on the number of passengers, the volume of airline capacity or the measures being considered to address the constraints. FAAN’s assessment nevertheless presents a market that is expanding while facing infrastructure and cost pressures.