The Federal Government has announced that a hike in-flight fare was inevitable due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Infinity Tyres

The Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, said this while responding to a question during the daily briefing of the task force in Abuja.

Mustapha stated that those in the aviation sector are in business for profit. He said with the protocol on social distancing, airlines will be expected to fly a fewer number of passengers.

He noted that operators will have to share the cost in view of the present situation with their passengers.

This is as the Federal Government has lifted the ban placed on interstate travels with effect from July 1, granted the journeys are made outside curfew hours.

The Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, disclosed this at the daily briefing of the task force in Abuja.

READ ALSO: COVID-19: Travellers from Nigeria, America not allowed in Europe

Mustapha, who is also the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, also said the government has approved the safe resumption of domestic flights in the country.

He disclosed that the latest developments were contained in the task force’s fifth interim report which was submitted to President Muhammadu Buhari.

Mustapha said, “I am pleased to inform you that Mr President has carefully considered the 5th Interim Report of the PTF and has accordingly approved that, with the exception of some modifications to be expatiated upon later, the Phase Two of the eased lockdown be extended by another four weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020, through Midnight of Monday, 27 July 2020.