IBOM AIR DENIES MONOPOLY AT UYO AIRPORT

Ibom Air has rejected allegations that it operates a monopoly at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo or prevents other airlines from operating from the airport.

The airline said it does not have the authority or regulatory power to determine which carriers are allowed to operate from Uyo or other airports across Nigeria.

The clarification followed public concerns over Ibom Air’s strong presence at the airport and suggestions that limited competition could be contributing to higher fares and fewer flight options for passengers.

According to the airline, decisions on approving, regulating or suspending airline operations rest with the relevant aviation authorities, particularly the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.

Ibom Air cited Section 8(3) of the Civil Aviation Act 2022, which gives the NCAA responsibility for regulating civil aviation in Nigeria.

The carrier also explained that changes to its own flight schedules should not be interpreted as efforts to keep competitors away. It noted that it had previously suspended flights to destinations including Enugu and Calabar because of aircraft maintenance and other operational requirements.

Ibom Air said factors such as aircraft availability, fuel logistics, airport infrastructure, scheduling and regulatory requirements can affect the number of flights operating from an airport.

The airline stressed that being the home-based carrier in Uyo does not mean it owns or controls the airport or has the power to prevent other airlines from operating there.

It said it would welcome more airlines at Victor Attah International Airport, arguing that greater competition could provide passengers with more flight options, competitive fares and improved connectivity.

The airline added that increased competition could also boost passenger traffic and strengthen the aviation sector in Akwa Ibom and the wider South-South region.

Ibom Air maintained that its strong presence in Uyo reflects its role as the state's home-based carrier rather than a legally protected monopoly.