Airport taxi operators seek one-year extension on FAAN vehicle policy

Airport taxi operators have appealed to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to extend the implementation deadline for its new vehicle age policy by 12 months, citing economic challenges and the high cost of fleet replacement.

The operators, under various airport transport unions, are requesting that the enforcement of the policy, which requires all airport taxi vehicles to be 2012 models or newer, be postponed until June 2027.

Speaking on behalf of the operators, Chairman of the International Terminal Zone (ITZ) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Mr. Charles Odofin, said a formal petition had been submitted to FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, seeking additional time to comply with the directive.

Odofin stressed that the operators support FAAN’s efforts to modernize airport transportation services, including the introduction of a digital e-booking platform. However, he noted that prevailing economic conditions have made it difficult for many drivers to acquire newer vehicles within the stipulated timeframe.

According to him, less than five per cent of airport taxi operators nationwide currently meet the new vehicle age requirement, largely due to rising vehicle prices and limited access to affordable financing.

He explained that while airport-approved vehicles remain certified to operate until December this year, many operators risk losing their livelihoods if the policy is enforced without a grace period.

“The operators are fully aligned with FAAN’s modernization agenda and the move toward digital operations. Our concern is the timeline for compliance, considering the economic realities facing drivers and transport businesses,” Odofin said.

Industry stakeholders noted that the cost of used vehicles has risen sharply in recent years, while commercial lending rates remain high, making vehicle financing increasingly inaccessible for many owner-drivers.

The operators recalled that during a similar fleet modernization exercise in 2007, FAAN granted a two-year transition period that enabled drivers to access low-interest loans through banking partnerships and gradually upgrade their vehicles.

Despite concerns over the vehicle policy, airport taxi operators welcomed FAAN’s proposed electronic booking system, describing it as a step toward improving transparency, efficiency and passenger experience at Nigeria’s airports.

They also revealed that discussions are ongoing with private-sector partners on the gradual introduction of electric vehicles into airport transport fleets. However, stakeholders said the transition would require adequate charging infrastructure and additional time for implementation.

The operators expressed optimism that FAAN would consider their appeal, emphasizing that a phased approach would support modernization efforts while protecting the livelihoods of thousands of drivers who depend on airport transport services.