FAAN Considers Final Deadline Extension for Airport Cab Upgrade as Operators Face October 2026 Cut-Off

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has indicated that it may grant airport cab operators a final extension until October 2026 to comply with vehicle upgrade requirements introduced as part of ongoing efforts to improve service delivery across the nation’s airports.

The authority said the proposed extension would represent the last opportunity for operators to meet the new standards, stressing that multiple concessions had already been granted over a period exceeding two years.

FAAN disclosed this in a public announcement issued on June 22, 2026, amid concerns raised by members of the Association of Private Cab Operators regarding vehicle upgrade requirements and revised operational charges at airports nationwide.

According to the authority, the reforms are designed to improve reliability, safety, comfort and overall passenger satisfaction, noting that airport transportation services often shape visitors’ first and last impressions of the country.

FAAN explained that discussions on the vehicle upgrade policy began in July 2024, when operators were first informed of the new requirements. Following appeals from stakeholders, the original compliance deadline was extended to January 2026 and later shifted to June 2026 to accommodate prevailing economic challenges.

The authority said it is now considering what could be the final extension before enforcement begins.

“In further demonstration of goodwill and consideration, FAAN is currently considering a final extension of the compliance deadline until October 2026. This additional period is expected to provide adequate opportunity for operators to align with the required standards,” the statement said.

The agency maintained that the objective of the policy is not to punish operators but to ensure that airport transport services meet acceptable standards expected at modern aviation facilities.

It noted that airport cab operators have had ample notice and sufficient time to prepare for the transition, adding that no further extensions should be expected beyond the proposed October deadline.

FAAN also defended its decision to review operational tariffs for airport cab operators, dismissing criticisms that the increase was excessive.

According to the authority, the previous operational charge of ₦500 had remained unchanged for more than eight years despite rising inflation, increasing maintenance costs and broader economic realities affecting business operations nationwide.

The agency explained that the revised charge of ₦1,500 was necessary to support critical airport infrastructure, maintain operational efficiency and sustain service delivery standards across airport facilities.

“The adjustment from ₦500 to ₦1,500 should therefore be viewed within the context of prevailing economic realities and the need to sustain critical airport infrastructure and services,” FAAN stated.

Responding to allegations of inadequate stakeholder consultation, the authority insisted that it maintains regular engagement with licensed airport transport operators through established communication channels.

FAAN clarified that its regulatory and contractual relationships are conducted directly with registered transport companies operating within airport premises rather than umbrella associations or unions.

The authority said the vehicle upgrade initiative forms part of broader reforms aimed at aligning Nigeria’s aviation sector with international best practices while enhancing customer experience and service quality at airports nationwide.

With the proposed October 2026 deadline now under consideration, airport cab operators face what FAAN describes as a final window to modernise their fleets and comply with standards expected of transport providers operating within the country’s aviation gateways.