Why Were At Least 17 Dubai–Iran Flights Suddenly Cancelled? Are Tehran Protests and a Nationwide Internet Blackout Disrupting Regional Travel? Why are flights between Dubai and Iran being abruptly cancelled—and what does it reveal about the growing unrest inside the Islamic Republic? At least 17 Flydubai flights scheduled for Friday between Dubai and major Iranian cities, including Tehran, Shiraz, and Mashhad, were called off without prior notice, raising alarm among passengers and underscoring the widening impact of Iran’s escalating political crisis. Data published on the Dubai Airports website confirmed the cancellations, showing multiple outbound and inbound routes affected. The disruption comes as Iran faces intensifying nationwide protests and a near-total internet blackout, reportedly imposed by authorities in an effort to restrict communication and contain the spread of demonstrations. Iran has been gripped by widespread unrest since late December, driven by worsening economic conditions, soaring inflation, and deepening hardship for ordinary citizens. What began as localized protests has rapidly expanded across several cities, prompting a heavy security response from the government. Observers say the communication shutdown reflects growing concern within the Iranian authorities over the speed at which information—and dissent—is spreading. A Flydubai spokesperson confirmed that all scheduled flights to Iran on Friday were cancelled, stating that the airline would “continue to monitor the situation” and adjust operations as needed. However, no specific reasons were publicly provided, leaving travelers uncertain about safety conditions, regulatory restrictions, and how long the disruption might last. The cancellations were not limited to Flydubai. Turkish media reported that Turkish Airlines cancelled at least 17 flights to Iranian destinations, while Ajet reportedly suspended six flights. Pegasus Airlines was also said to have cancelled several routes. In the Gulf region, at least two flights between Doha and Tehran were reportedly cancelled, according to updates from Hamad International Airport. The wave of suspensions points to a broader regional response to instability inside Iran. Airlines are increasingly forced to weigh passenger safety, operational risks, and regulatory uncertainty as protests grow and communication channels remain restricted. The key question remains: Are these flight cancellations a temporary precaution—or an early sign of deeper regional disruption tied to Iran’s internal crisis? For travelers, airlines, and neighboring countries, the unfolding situation highlights how domestic unrest in one nation can quickly ripple across international transport, commerce, and security. As protests persist and the blackout continues, aviation disruptions may expand further, signaling that Iran’s political turmoil is no longer confined within its borders but is now reshaping regional connectivity in real time.

Air Peace CEO Warns New Tax Law Could Push Nigerian Domestic Flight Fares to ₦1 Million Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema has raised alarms over Nigeria’s new tax provisions, warning they could push domestic flight fares beyond ₦1 million and threaten airline operations. Speaking on ARISE NEWS, Onyema explained that cumulative levies—including VAT on aircraft and spare parts, and NCAA charges—are straining airlines’ finances, with only a fraction of ticket revenue reaching operators. He called for urgent government intervention to prevent sector collapse, stressing that implementing the new tax framework could force airlines to pass high costs to passengers, potentially crippling Nigeria’s aviation industry and impacting the wider economy.

Air Peace Chairman Defends Christmas Airfares, Says Nigerian Airlines Unfairly Demonised Over Southeast Flight Costs The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has rejected claims that Nigerian airlines exploited passengers with high airfares during the Christmas season, insisting that entry fares still start from ₦150,000. Speaking amid public outrage and regulatory scrutiny, Onyema said airlines are being unfairly accused of price fixing, especially on Southeast routes where return flights are often nearly empty. He explained that high operational costs, wet-lease charges, taxes, and demand-driven pricing account for fare differences, stressing that most of the ticket revenue does not go directly to airlines. Onyema urged government agencies and the public to stop scapegoating airlines, describing the criticism as unfair and damaging to the aviation sector.

Nigerians Pay the Cheapest Domestic Air Fares Globally – Air Peace CEO, Onyema Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has said that domestic air travellers in Nigeria are paying the cheapest air fares in the world. Onyema made the assertion on Sunday during an interview on Arise Television, monitored by DAILY POST, while responding to widespread complaints over the rising cost of air travel in the country. According to him, despite public perception, local flight tickets in Nigeria remain significantly cheaper when compared to fares in other parts of the world. “Nigerians are paying the cheapest domestic air fares in the world,” Onyema said. He explained that passengers abroad pay far more for similar travel durations, adding, “A one-hour flight costs over $400 abroad, but in Nigeria, we still have tickets for N125,000, which is less than $60.” The Air Peace boss attributed the frequent collapse of airlines in the country to the inability of operators to cover costs under the current fare structure. “This is why the mortality rate of airlines in Nigeria is very high; over 80 airlines have come and gone. They should allow airlines to breathe,” he said.

Air Peace Flight Grounded After Conveyor Belt Damages Engine Cover, Disrupts Operations On Nine Routes — NCAA Operations on an Air Peace flight were severely disrupted after a ground handler’s conveyor belt struck and damaged the aircraft’s engine cover while passengers were already on board, forcing an unscheduled deboarding and widespread delays. The incident, confirmed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, rendered the aircraft unsafe to continue operations. The affected plane, a newly acquired Embraer E2 jet, had been scheduled to operate nine sectors and was fully booked until January 15, 2026, meaning all passengers on those routes faced delays or cancellations. Achimugu explained that despite the damage being caused by a third-party service provider, airlines often bear passenger anger, financial losses, regulatory sanctions, refund obligations, and costly foreign repairs. He stressed the need for stricter regulation and accountability for ground handling services, transparency in informing passengers about the true causes of disruptions, and stronger sanctions against negligent service providers to protect airlines and restore confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

NCAA Investigates Three Nigerian Airlines Over Passenger Welfare and Delays Regulatory Action: The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) intervened at the Abuja operations of Xejet, Rano Air, and United Nigeria Airline due to concerns over poor passenger care during flight disruptions. Reason for Action: The NCAA cited failure to comply with regulations, including providing timely updates and light refreshments after two hours of delay, as required under Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. Public Statement: Michael Achimugu, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, stressed that airlines must meet their obligations, especially during the end-of-year travel rush, warning of regulatory sanctions for non-compliance. Context: Airfares have surged by about 150%, reaching over ₦300,000 on some domestic routes (especially South-South and South-East) due to high passenger demand and aircraft shortages. The Nigerian Senate recently summoned aviation officials over these steep increases. Key Takeaway: NCAA is actively monitoring airline operations to protect passengers’ rights and ensure compliance during high-traffic periods. Airlines failing to meet standards risk penalties.

Customs Intercepts N2.28bn From Dubai-bound Austrian National At Lagos Airport The Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Tuesday stated that it intercepted the sum of €651,505 and $800,575, valued at approximately N2.28 billion, from an Austrian national at the airport. The suspect, identified as Kavlak Onal, an Austrian citizen, was en route to Dubai aboard Emirates Airlines on Saturday, December 13, 2025, when he was arrested by the Anti-Money Laundering Unit of the Command.

Private Jet Crash-Lands At Kano Airport Passengers reportedly endured tense moments before being safely evacuated from the jet. No injuries or fatalities were immediately recorded. A private jet operated by Flybird Airlines crash-landed at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) on Sunday morning, triggering panic among passengers and airport users. The aircraft, which flew in from Abuja, was carrying 11 people, including three crew members, when it encountered difficulties and made an emergency landing at about 9:30 a.m., according to reports. Passengers reportedly endured tense moments before being safely evacuated from the jet. No injuries or fatalities were immediately recorded. Airport authorities swiftly secured the scene as emergency response teams were deployed to ensure the safety of all passengers and personnel, while investigations into the incident commenced.

FCCPC Expands Probe Into Alleged Exploitative Airfares on Nigerian Domestic Routes The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has expanded its investigation into domestic airline pricing after widespread public complaints about sharp and possibly coordinated airfare increases, especially on South-East and South-South routes ahead of the festive season. The probe, which covers multiple operators, aims to determine whether airlines violated the FCCPA 2018 through excessive, opaque, or anti-competitive pricing practices. The Commission clarified it does not control prices but is mandated to act against consumer exploitation. Despite an ongoing lawsuit from Air Peace seeking to halt the inquiry, FCCPC says its investigation will continue, with enforcement actions to follow if breaches are confirmed.

BREAKING NEWS: Passengers across several United Nigeria Airlines routes departing Abuja were today left stranded and frustrated after a bird strike on one of the carrier’s aircraft triggered multiple flight cancellations.

Hike in Airfares: Reps seek reduction of 50% in airport charges and auxiliary taxes The Federal Government through the Ministry of Aviation has been asked to intervene in the exorbitant cost of domestic air tickets by effecting a fifty percent reduction in airport charges and auxiliary taxes. The House of Representatives which passed the resolution at Thursday's plenary is hoping that this will translate to a significant reduction in airfares to enable Nigerians take advantage of air travel during the Yuletide. Adopting a motion by Representative Obinna Aguocha, the House called for a transparent assessment mechanism by the Ministry of Aviation to determine the actual operational costs for airlines during the Yuletide. The House also drew attention to the plight of retirees and contributors under the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Pension Fund Limited, who are facing delayed payment of their pension and gratuities, while calling for action.

Government cannot regulate airfare prices for private enterprises,” Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo says as domestic airfares climb to ₦1 million Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation, has stated that the government has no authority to fix prices for private enterprises, including the aviation sector. Speaking on Arise TV, Keyamo said, “The government has absolutely no power to fix prices for private enterprises, including the aviation industry.” He explained that the recent hike in airfare ticket prices is beyond government control because the aviation industry has been fully deregulated. Keyamo emphasized that with deregulation, airlines now independently set their fares, and the government cannot interfere in pricing decisions. He urged the public to understand that ticket costs are determined by market forces and operational considerations within the aviation industry. In conclusion, the Minister reiterated that while the government can support the sector through policies and infrastructure, it has no mandate to control ticket prices, leaving fare adjustments at the discretion of airline operators.

Ibom Air Flight Aborts Lagos Landing, Returns to Abuja Due to Bad Weather An Ibom Air flight travelling from Abuja to Lagos on Thursday was forced to return to the capital after severe weather conditions made landing impossible. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who was on board, said the aircraft hovered over Lagos for about 30 minutes before the captain diverted back to Abuja. Passengers spent roughly two hours in the air before landing safely. The airline has not issued an official statement yet, though weather-related disruptions have recently affected multiple Nigerian airlines, including Air Peace, which previously announced delays due to heavy rainfall in Lagos and Port Harcourt. Airlines continue to emphasise safety as their top priority amid recurring adverse weather patterns nationwide.

Ekiti Agro-Allied International Airport Begins Operations as United Nigeria Airlines Launches First Direct Flight Ekiti State has commenced commercial operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport following a N49.7 billion investment by successive administrations. United Nigeria Airlines operated the inaugural direct flight from Abuja, carrying dignitaries and marking the beginning of passenger services. Governor Biodun Oyebanji revealed that N14 billion was spent between 2019 and 2022, while his administration invested an additional N34 billion to complete crucial infrastructure, including the terminal, control tower, drainage systems, and Instrument Landing System. The governor praised the contributions of former governors and Aare Afe Babalola, who donated $1.6 million worth of navigational equipment. Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo described the milestone as a boost for regional trade and job creation. In a related development, Ogun State’s Gateway International Airport is also preparing to receive its first commercial flight after securing regulatory approval.

ECOWAS Slashes Air Travel Taxes and Charges to Boost Regional Connectivity West African leaders have taken a major step to make flying within the region significantly cheaper, adopting measures that will abolish multiple air transport taxes and cut passenger and security charges by 25 percent starting 1 January 2026. The decision was reached at the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government Summit held in Abuja in December 2024, where leaders signed a Supplementary Act on Aviation Charges, Taxes and Fees aimed at tackling one of the biggest barriers to regional integration: the high cost of intra-African air travel. For years, West Africa has had some of the world’s most expensive airfares relative to distance, largely due to a web of taxes, fuel surcharges, security fees and other levies imposed by individual countries. The new policy requires all 15 ECOWAS member states to eliminate designated air transport taxes entirely and reduce remaining passenger service and security charges by a quarter. The move is expected to lower ticket prices, stimulate tourism and business travel, strengthen local airlines and support trade, and advance the free movement of people and goods – a core objective of the ECOWAS Treaty. To ensure compliance, the ECOWAS Commission will oversee implementation through a newly established Regional Air Transport Economic Oversight Mechanism. Regional aviation stakeholders have welcomed the decision, describing it as a game-changer for West Africa’s Africa’s chronically under-served air transport market. The reforms will take effect on 1 January 2026, giving airlines and national authorities one year to adjust systems and regulations.

Senate summons aviation minister over surge in domestic airfares The Senate has summoned the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and key stakeholders in the sector for an urgent interaction following public outcry over the sudden rise in domestic airfares. The resolution came during plenary today December 9 after Buhari Abdulfatai raised a motion on the floor of the Senate, warning that the soaring prices pose a serious threat to mobility and could trigger nationwide travel disruption in the coming days. Leading the debate, Senator Buhari from Oyo state noted that Nigerians have continuously decried the rise in cost of domestic flights. He revealed that a one-way ticket from Abuja to Lagos now costs between N400,000 and N600,000, an amount many citizens can no longer afford. The lawmaker argued that the situation is especially distressing given the increasing difficulty and insecurity on major highways. “We need to invite stakeholders of our airline agencies to interact and interrogate the issues. Immediate steps must be taken before the festive period,” he said Other senators echoed similar concerns. Senator Orji Kalu however attempted to justify the airlines’ fare increases by pointing to rising operational costs and the soaring price of spare parts, an explanation that was met with rousing disapproval from several lawmakers. The lawmakers unanimously agreed to summon the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, airline operators, regulators and other industry stakeholders to given reasons for the increase in fares and how it can be reduced.

Twenty-One Economic Miracles Currently Happening Under President Tinubu One: Our foreign reserves have crossed the $45 billion mark for the first time in six years. It is now the fourth-highest on the African continent. Two: The prudent management of our foreign reserves under President Tinubu has led to a 3.93% GDP growth in the immediate past quarter and 4.23% growth in the quarter before that (Q2, 2025). Three: Nigeria, under President Tinubu, has, within two years, moved from being Africa's biggest petrol importer to becoming West Africa's largest exporter of the same product. Four: For the first time in over a decade, Nigeria has overshot its OPEC quota for three consecutive months and is set to do the same for the fourth month, producing an average of 1.71 million barrels per day. Five: President Tinubu gave Nigerian airlines direct flights to London's Gatwick Airport, United Kingdom, London's Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom, São Paulo, Brazil, Bogotá, Colombia, Entebbe, Uganda, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Algiers, Algeria, and St. Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean. Six: Oil theft has been reduced to less than 10,000 barrels per day, a sixteen-year low. Seven: Nigeria achieved its revenue target for the entire year in August, a first in our history. Eight: The Nigerian Stock Exchange rose above 130,000 All Share Index for the first time ever. Nine: Our economy expanded by $67 billion in just two years, moving Nigeria's GDP from a ₦269.29 trillion economy on May 29, 2023, when Asiwaju became President, to ₦372.8 trillion today. Ten: Between January and August 2025, non-oil tax revenue was ₦20.59 trillion, a 40.5% increase from the ₦14.6 trillion recorded in the corresponding period in 2024. Eleven: MTN Nigeria Limited hit a record valuation of ₦10 trillion, the first Nigerian company to do so. Twelve: Food prices have fallen significantly, resulting in a drop in inflation to 16.05% at present, down from 20.12% in August 2025, a 1.76% decline from July's 21.88%. Thirteen: Dangote and other retailers have crashed fuel prices below ₦1000. Fourteen: The Naira has stabilised and is now below ₦1500 to $, making it among the world's best-performing currencies, according to Fitch Ratings. Fifteen: Nigeria broke its power generation record with a peak generation of 5,801.84MW and maximum daily energyoutput of 128,370.75 megawatt-hours (MWh), the highest ever attained in the history of the electricity industry in Nigeria. Sixteen: After a record trade surplus last year, Nigeria appears set to beat its 2024 figure. Our trade surplus rose 44.3% in Q2 to ₦7.46 trillion, up from ₦5.17 trillion in Q1. Seventeen: In a sign of an improving economy, the Central Bank of Nigeria reduced interest rates by 50 basis points to 27%, the first time since the #COVID19 pandemic. Eighteen: Fitch and S&P Global Ratings upgraded Nigeria's economy to a Stable B. Nineteen: Two PhDs in economics, in the persons of Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, and the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and incumbent Governor of Anambra, Dr Chukwuma Soludo, both confirmed that President Tinubu has "stabilised the economy". Twenty: Rail transport expanded in Nigeria by 43.08% in Q2 2025. Twenty-one: Road transport expanded by 24.50% in Q2 2025, driven by the ₦13 trillion 1,068-kilometre Illela-Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, and the ₦15 trillion 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, currently under construction. Bonus: Student loans were awarded to an unprecedented 500,000 students, with hundreds of thousands more awaiting their loans. Effective rebranding projects a positive image of what is happening. It is the best way to neutralise enemies of the nation who want to overwhelm the airwaves with negative information. If you are a patriot who loves Nigeria and wants your country to progress, please spread this truthful message. Reno Omokri

Uganda Airlines Launches Cheaper Nigeria Flights to Compete With Air Peace, Arik and Others Uganda Airlines has officially commenced flight operations in Nigeria, beginning with Lagos and expanding to Abuja and Kano, promising cheaper fares and faster connectivity between West and East Africa. The airline’s inaugural flight landed at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport two decades after Nigeria and Uganda signed their BASA agreement. With three weekly flights now approved, the Ugandan carrier reduces travel time between both countries from 10 hours to just three and a half. Aviation stakeholders say the entry of Uganda Airlines will boost competition, lower ticket prices, and provide easier connections to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Nigeria’s Ministry of Aviation also confirmed new route approvals as the country continues attracting more foreign airlines despite industry challenges.

Air Peace CEO Warns New 2026 Tax Law Will Cripple Nigerian Airline Air Peace Chairman and AON leader, Allen Onyema, has warned that the proposed tax law scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, will devastate Nigeria’s aviation industry if implemented. Speaking at the 100 years of Aviation celebration in Abuja, Onyema said the sector—already struggling—would “crumble” under the new tax regime and urged the National Assembly and President Tinubu to intervene. He praised the current administration’s support for the aviation sector but stressed that multiple taxes remain a major burden on airlines. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo also honoured industry veterans at the event, acknowledging past contributions and pledging continued reforms.

PBAT's Aviation Masterstroke: The MRO Deal That Puts Nigeria on the Global Map President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just pulled off one of the most transformative moves in Nigeria’s aviation history, a strategic partnership with global aerospace giant Boeing and the UK’s prestigious Cranfield University to establish a world-class Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) hub right here in Nigeria. This is not just another government announcement. It’s a structural shift that changes how the world views Nigeria’s aviation capacity. 1. Billions Saved, Billions Earned Right now, Nigerian airlines spend billions of naira every year flying their aircraft abroad for routine maintenance. With this facility in Nigeria, that money stays in the economy, and foreign airlines may even start coming to us for servicing. This means massive savings, fresh revenue streams, and a stronger naira over time. 2. Thousands of High-Value Jobs MROs are labour-intensive and highly technical. From aeronautical engineers to technicians and software specialists to safety experts, this hub will create thousands of well-paid, specialised jobs for Nigerians. President Tinubu isn’t just creating jobs; he’s creating global-standard careers. 3. Skills That Match Global Standards Partnering with Cranfield University, one of the world’s leading aviation and aerospace institutions, means Nigerian professionals will receive elite training. For the first time, Nigeria will train and export aviation talent at the level of Europe, the Middle East, and North America. 4. A Boost for Local Airlines Air Peace, Ibom Air, Azman, Overland all Nigerian airlines will finally have affordable, quick-turnaround maintenance at home. This translates to cheaper operations, fewer grounded aircraft, better safety, and more flights for Nigerians. 5. Nigeria Becomes Africa’s Aviation Powerhouse Only a few African countries have credible MRO facilities. With Boeing and Cranfield backing this project, Nigeria leapfrogs into continental leadership, attracting investment, partnerships, and global aviation traffic. 6. Proof of President Tinubu’s Economic Diplomacy Working This partnership didn’t fall from the sky; it’s a direct result of Tinubu’s aggressive economic diplomacy, restoring investor confidence, strengthening international ties, and positioning Nigeria as a serious business destination again. In simple terms: This MRO project is a high-impact, high-value, globally recognised move that boosts jobs, strengthens airlines, saves foreign exchange, and establishes Nigeria as the aviation hub Africa has been waiting for, all under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s watch.