IATA chief economist Marie Owens Thomsen recalled the uncertainty generated at last year’s conference, held in New Delhi just weeks after US President Donald Trump unleashed his tariff war.
Airlines More Worried About Taxes Than Middle East War — IATA
While the ongoing Middle East conflict has sent jet fuel prices skyrocketing, top airline executives say their biggest headache is actually closer to home — government taxes and heavy regulations.
At the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) annual conference in Rio de Janeiro, airline chiefs gathered to discuss the state of the industry. Despite rising fuel costs, the mood was surprisingly calm when it came to the war.
Fuel Bills Through The Roof
IATA Director General Willie Walsh revealed the staggering cost of the conflict on the industry.
“We expect average jet fuel prices to be 70 percent higher year-on-year. That will add $100 billion to our collective fuel bill this year,” Walsh told delegates.
Yet when asked about the war’s impact, executives were remarkably relaxed — suggesting they’ve learned to expect the unexpected.
Turkey’s Pegasus Airlines chief Guliz Ozturk noted that airlines always prepare for multiple scenarios at the start of each year, only for something completely different to happen.
Taxes Are The Real Enemy
Rather than focusing on the war, IATA used the conference to call out governments imposing heavy taxes on airline tickets — many justified under the banner of reducing carbon emissions.
The European Union received the most criticism, with Walsh attacking what he called “populist” policies that increase costs for airlines without solving environmental problems.
What This Means For Nigerians And Africans
Rising airline costs globally could mean higher ticket prices for international flights from Nigeria and across Africa in the coming months.
Travellers planning trips to Europe, the UK or the Middle East should consider booking early to lock in current fares before prices climb further.
MEZIE Media
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