FAAN Defends Airport Cab Policy, Explains Vehicle Upgrade, Tariff Review
Oru Leonard
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has defended its policies on airport taxi operations, clarifying that the ongoing vehicle upgrade requirement and revised operational charges are aimed at improving passenger experience, safety and service quality across Nigerian airports.
In a statement issued by its management, the Authority said recent concerns raised by members of the Association of Private Cab Operators over vehicle standards and operational tariffs necessitated a clarification to reassure the travelling public and stakeholders.
FAAN stressed that airports serve as the nation’s gateway and must project a positive image through quality services, including reliable and comfortable airport transportation. According to the Authority, the directive requiring operators to upgrade to newer vehicle models is consistent with international best practices and is intended to ensure passengers have access to clean, roadworthy and professionally maintained vehicles.
Addressing the review of operational tariffs, FAAN noted that the existing N500 charge had remained unchanged for more than eight years despite rising inflation, increased operating costs and changing economic realities. It explained that the revised fee of N1,500 is necessary to sustain critical airport infrastructure and services while ensuring continued operational efficiency.
The Authority also dismissed claims that it had refused to engage with airport cab operators, stating that it maintains regular consultations with licensed cab companies through an established stakeholder engagement framework. FAAN explained that its contractual relationship is with registered airport transport companies rather than associations or unions representing them.
On the implementation of the vehicle upgrade policy, FAAN disclosed that discussions with operators began in July 2024, with the initial compliance deadline later extended to January 2026 and subsequently to June 2026 in response to requests from operators and prevailing economic conditions.
The Authority added that it is considering a final extension until October 2026 to enable operators complete the transition, stressing that the policy is not intended to punish businesses but to ensure airport transport services meet the standards expected by passengers.
FAAN, however, maintained that the multiple extensions granted over more than two years have provided operators with sufficient time to comply, indicating that no further deadline extensions are expected after the proposed October 2026 deadline.
Reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, the Authority acknowledged the important role airport cab operators play in facilitating passenger movement and urged all licensed companies to embrace the upgrade initiative in the collective interest of improving safety, efficiency and customer satisfaction.
FAAN said it will continue to implement policies that place passengers at the centre of service delivery while promoting globally competitive standards across Nigeria’s aviation sector.
