Speaking in an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, Nwuba said the rise in ticket prices is driven by increased demand and serves as compensation for airlines operating with lower fares during off-peak periods.

He noted that this pattern occurs every year, emphasizing that it is a recurring trend.

According to him, fares are expected to drop next year, as the government has pledged to reduce various taxes and charges affecting the aviation sector.

“It’s nothing new; this happens annually. Prices always rise during Christmas because of basic economic forces.

“It’s demand that pushes fares up, and airlines use this period to balance out the lower prices they offer during the slow months. So it’s the same story every year. The fares go up.

“It’s unfortunate, but they should reduce next year since the government has promised to cut taxes and charges,” he said.

The Nigerian Senate recently invited the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, along with major stakeholders in the industry, for an urgent meeting following widespread public complaints over the sharp increase in domestic flight prices.