Nigeria’s domestic aviation sector recorded 4,765 flight delays and 36 cancellations in August 2026, highlighting persistent operational challenges despite efforts by regulators and airline operators to improve service delivery.
According to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), 15 domestic airlines operated 7,961 flights during the month, with approximately six in every 10 flights delayed.
Air Peace recorded 1,330 delays out of 1,864 flights, representing 71.4 per cent of its operations. United Nigeria Airlines had the highest delay rate at 76.6 per cent, with 943 delays from 1,231 flights and eight cancellations.
Enugu Air recorded 582 delays from 878 flights, while ValueJet had 435 delays from 767 flights. Umza Air recorded the lowest delay rate at 12.9 per cent, with 52 delays from 403 flights and no cancellations.
The NCAA has warned airlines against persistent delays, crew shortages and poor passenger communication, urging operators to align flight schedules with available aircraft and personnel.
Air Peace attributed disruptions to technical issues, weather and airport restrictions, while Max Air cited crew limitations.
The Federal Government and industry stakeholders are continuing engagements to address operational challenges and improve passenger experience.
Experts say sustainable progress will depend on preventing avoidable disruptions and ensuring reliable, timely services.
