FCCPC: Air Peace Under FCCPC Investigation Over High Ticket Prices, Cancellations

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a warning to Air Peace, cautioning the airline against obstructing its ongoing investigation into potential violations of consumer rights, including exploitative ticket pricing and unfair practices.

The inquiry, prompted by numerous complaints from passengers, addresses concerns regarding high fares, flight cancellations, and inadequate compensation.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, stated on Sunday that the commission met with Air Peace on December 3, 2024, to discuss these issues.

The meeting, held privately to maintain confidentiality, was followed by media leaks that misrepresented the proceedings, including false claims that Air Peace was not under investigation. The FCCPC clarified on December 5 that the investigation was still ongoing and advised the public to be cautious of misleading reports.

The leaks also included statements from Air Peace’s Chairman, Allen Onyema, claiming he could “shut down the airline” for the nation’s benefit. However, the FCCPC dismissed these comments as attempts to undermine the investigation. The airline had earlier argued that only the aviation regulatory agency could investigate its operations, a position the FCCPC refuted, emphasizing its legal authority under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA).

The FCCPC reminded Air Peace that the rights of passengers are guaranteed under the FCCPA, which empowers the commission to investigate pricing practices across all sectors, including aviation.

The investigation also scrutinizes the airline’s recent fare hikes, which proposed fares of up to N700,000 for a one-hour domestic flight, sparking controversy among consumers who claim the airline is inflating its fuel costs. In contrast, a competitor airline recently reduced fares to as low as N80,000 for similar routes, showing that affordability is achievable.

In addition to pricing issues, the FCCPC highlighted complaints about flight cancellations, delays, and poor compensation practices. For example, on November 29, passengers at Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport protested a four-hour delay on the Abuja-Lagos route, which led to security intervention. Furthermore, passengers reported being charged up to a 50% surcharge when rebooking tickets after cancellations or delays.

Despite attempts to divert attention from the investigation, the FCCPC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring fair competition in all sectors.

“No amount of blackmail or cowboy tactics can stop the Commission from thoroughly investigating the allegations against Air Peace,” Ijagwu stated, reaffirming the FCCPC’s resolve to protect consumers and promote a transparent marketplace.

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