The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has defended its decision to increase the operational tariff for airport cab operators from N500 to N1,500, describing the move as necessary to improve service quality and maintain standards at the nation’s airports.

The agency also reiterated its directive requiring airport taxi operators to phase out older vehicles, saying passengers deserve safe, comfortable and professionally maintained transport services that reflect the standards of a modern international airport.

Responding to concerns raised by some operators, FAAN noted that the tariff had remained unchanged for more than eight years despite rising inflation and operating costs. The authority added that operators were first notified of the vehicle upgrade requirement in 2024 and had already received multiple deadline extensions.

FAAN said it is considering a final extension of the compliance deadline until October 2026 but stressed that no further extensions are expected. The agency maintained that the policy is intended to enhance passenger experience, not punish operators, and urged stakeholders to support efforts to improve airport transportation services nationwide.