FAAN Gives Airport Taxi Operator October Deadline to Upgrade Vehicles

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has defended its controversial airport taxi reforms, insisting that the upgrade of vehicles and upward review of operational charges are necessary to improve passenger experience and align airport transport services with international standards. The authority, in a statement on Monday, also said that airport cab operators may be granted one final extension until October 2026 to comply with the vehicle upgrade policy after previous deadlines were repeatedly extended. FAAN said the reforms were designed to enhance safety, comfort, and reliability for travelers using airport taxi services nationwide.

The clarification comes amid complaints by some members of the Association of Private Cab Operators, who have opposed the vehicle replacement directive and a threefold increase in operational tariffs. Responding to the criticism, FAAN said the current N500 operational charge had remained unchanged for more than eight years despite rising inflation, increasing maintenance costs, and other economic pressures.

FAAN rejected allegations that it had failed to consult stakeholders before introducing the measures, maintaining that it regularly engages licensed airport transport companies through established channels. According to the authority, its contractual relationship is with registered cab firms operating within airports rather than trade associations or unions.

The agency disclosed that discussions on vehicle upgrades began in July 2024, giving operators more than two years to prepare for compliance. It noted that the implementation deadline was first extended to January 2026 and later shifted to June 2026 following appeals from operators affected by economic challenges.

While acknowledging the role of airport cab operators in facilitating passenger movement, FAAN urged transport companies to embrace the reforms and collaborate with the authority in raising service standards.

FAAN reiterated its commitment to passenger-centered service delivery, saying all airport operations, including transportation services, must reflect the standards expected of a modern aviation sector.