Nigeria Air Ticket May Increase Following Niger Airspace Closure

The military government that took over democracy in the Niger Republic has shut down the country's airspace relating to the comments of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) threat of involving the military to restore democracy. 

However, the ultimatum given by the regional bloc expired on Sunday whereas the military has failed to install President Mohamed Bazoum as the country’s president. 

From all indications, ECOWAS which consists of 15 countries has had a series of meetings threatening to restore order in Niger by force.

ECOWAS sent a warning a week ago, threatening to use force if the coup plotters, led by General Abdourahmane Tchiani, refused to give up power by midnight Sunday (2300 GMT) and reinstate Bazoum, who they arrested at the presidency on July 26.

The Statement From Coup Plotters in Niger,

“Faced with the threat of intervention, which is becoming clearer through the preparation of neighbouring countries, Niger’s airspace is closed from this day on Sunday… for all aircraft until further notice,” 

Any attempt to violate the country’s airspace would meet with an “energetic and immediate response,” the statement added.

According to the flight tracking website Flightradar24, no planes were flying in Niger's airspace yesterday.

Response From Mali and Burkina Faso,

At the same time, Mali and Burkina Faso agreed yesterday to send a joint delegation to Niamey, Niger's capital, to demonstrate unity, according to the Malian army.

“Burkina Faso and Mali are sending a delegation to Niamey to show the solidarity of the two countries with the brotherly people of Niger,” the army tweeted.

The two nations also warned that any military action in Niger would be seen as a proclamation of war against them, resulting in the removal of Burkina Faso and Mali from ECOWAS.

How the Closure of Niger Airspace Could Affect Ticket Prices

• The increase in operational costs raises the prospect of higher ticket pricing for Nigerian travelers. Because of the increased fuel consumption and longer travel times, airlines may raise ticket prices to reflect the higher costs.

• As a result, Nigerian customers traveling between Europe and southern Africa may face increased ticket rates, affecting both leisure and business travelers and potentially lowering regional air travel demand.

• The expected extension of Niger's airspace restriction implies more prolonged flight durations and major interruptions to travel plans for Nigerians.

• Flights across the impacted area may incur delays, disrupting subsequent connections and overall travel experiences.

• Airlines are trying to identify alternate routes due to restricted air travel alternatives, perhaps resulting in flight cancellations or reduced frequency of services.

• The restricted number of flights may make it even more difficult for travelers to locate convenient and economical travel choices.