Nigeria’s aviation industry faces significant setbacks due to the 22-year aircraft age limit. According to Roland Iyayi, CEO of Topbrass Aviation and a senior member of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), this policy hinders the sector’s expansion, tourism development, and overall economic growth. Speaking at the Quarterly Business Meeting of the Aviation Safety Round Table (ASRT) in Lagos, Iyayi called for a review of the policy, citing its negative implications for the aviation industry.
The State of Nigerian Airports and Airstrips
Nigeria currently has 31 airports and 91 airstrips, yet many remain underutilized. Iyayi noted that a lack of effective policies has stalled the full potential of the aviation sector. Travelers flying between Abuja and Lagos can see multiple airstrips from the air, yet these infrastructures are not maximized for economic benefit.
Cape Town Convention: Potential Yet Delayed Benefits
The Cape Town Convention (CTC) provides Nigerian airlines with an opportunity to access aircraft leases at more affordable rates. However, the expected benefits are delayed due to global aviation supply chain disruptions. Most major airlines plan fleet renewals by 2025, meaning aircraft availability for Nigerian operators could take another five to ten years.
Global Aircraft Manufacturing Challenges
Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer—the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers—are currently experiencing production delays. Factors such as supply chain disruptions during COVID-19, engine shortages, and quality control issues have slowed new aircraft deliveries. For example:
- Airbus has a backlog of 7,000 A320neo aircraft, with only 3,607 delivered as of October 2024.
- Boeing has delivered only 1,654 out of 4,793 ordered 737 Max jets, leaving a 3,000-aircraft backlog.
Due to these delays, aircraft availability for Nigerian operators remains uncertain.
Origins of the 22-Year Aircraft Age Restriction
Nigeria’s 22-year aircraft age limit is rooted in political interference rather than safety concerns. According to Iyayi, this restriction originated when a past minister imposed an age limit to prevent Albarka Air from entering the domestic market. Initially set at 20 years, the restriction was later adjusted to 22 years to accommodate Nigeria’s Boeing 727 presidential jet. Today, this law continues to stifle industry growth and prevent airlines from acquiring cost-effective aircraft.
Impact on the Aviation Sector and Tourism
- Limited Fleet Growth: Most commercial aircraft currently in operation exceed the 22-year age limit, restricting airline expansion.
- Inconsistent Policy Making: Many aviation policies in Nigeria are not backed by empirical data but are rather politically motivated.
- Tourism Setbacks: Unlike Kenya and other East African nations that leverage aviation for tourism growth, Nigeria’s policies hinder accessibility to key tourist destinations.
Capacity Growth vs. Destructive Competition
Nigeria’s aviation market is dominated by single-aisle aircraft, including Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s. However, these aircraft primarily serve four major routes—Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano—which account for over 80% of domestic air traffic. The influx of these aircraft could result in destructive competition rather than balanced industry growth.
Need for Tiered Airline Licensing and Policy Reform
To support industry growth, experts advocate for tiered airline licensing that allows smaller aircraft (19-30 seats) to operate on underutilized 91 airstrips. This approach could boost regional connectivity and domestic tourism.
Additionally, the Nigerian aviation sector requires policy reforms that align with global standards. Until strategic changes are implemented, the aircraft age limit will continue to hinder market growth, affecting both the aviation and tourism industries
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