FAAN Hikes Airport Cab Fee, Sets October Upgrade Deadline
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced an increase in the operational tariff paid by airport cab operators from N500 to N1,500, while giving transport operators until October 2026 to upgrade their vehicles to meet new standards.
The authority said the measures are part of efforts to improve passenger experience, enhance safety, and ensure airport transport services meet international standards.
The decision follows concerns raised by members of the Nigeria Union of Private Cab Operators (NUPCO), who had threatened to suspend operations at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, from July 1, 2026, if FAAN failed to reverse the policies.
The operators had opposed the directive requiring them to phase out vehicles manufactured before 2012, describing the policy as burdensome amid current economic challenges.
However, FAAN, in a statement, said airport transportation services must reflect the quality, safety and professionalism expected of major aviation gateways.
According to the authority, the vehicle upgrade policy is aimed at ensuring passengers have access to clean, reliable, comfortable and properly maintained vehicles.
“Passengers who utilise airport taxi services deserve clean, roadworthy, comfortable, and professionally maintained vehicles that reflect the premium environment expected of a modern international airport,” FAAN said.
The agency also explained that the tariff adjustment was necessary due to rising operational costs, inflation and the need to sustain airport infrastructure and services.
FAAN noted that the previous N500 tariff had remained unchanged for more than eight years, despite significant increases in maintenance expenses and other economic pressures.
“The adjustment from N500 to N1,500 should therefore be viewed within the context of prevailing economic realities and the need to sustain critical airport infrastructure and services,” the authority stated.
On engagement with operators, FAAN dismissed claims that it had failed to consult stakeholders, saying it maintains regular discussions with licensed airport transport service providers.
The authority explained that its regulatory relationship is directly with registered cab companies rather than unions or associations representing operators.
Meanwhile, FAAN said cab operators had been given sufficient time to comply with the vehicle upgrade requirement, noting that the policy was first communicated in July 2024.
The original compliance deadline was extended to January 2026 following requests from operators, with another extension granted until June 2026.
FAAN said it is now considering a final extension until October 2026 to allow operators more time to meet the new standards.
The authority, however, stressed that no further extensions would be considered beyond the proposed deadline.
FAAN maintained that the policy was not designed to frustrate operators but to improve service delivery and provide passengers with better airport transportation options.
