Airline operators in Nigeria have warned they may suspend flight operations nationwide from April 20, 2026, if the soaring cost of aviation fuel is not urgently addressed.
The warning was issued by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) in a letter dated April 14 and addressed to the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN). The group described the current pricing of Jet A1 fuel as “astronomical and unsustainable.”
According to the operators, the price of aviation fuel has surged dramatically in recent weeks, rising from ₦900 per litre at the end of February to ₦3,300 per litre an increase of more than 300 percent. AON noted that the spike is inconsistent with global oil market trends, where crude oil prices have reportedly risen by only about 30 percent within the same period.
Despite the steep increase, airlines said they had continued operations for over a month, absorbing the additional costs as part of their commitment to national service. However, they stated that sustaining such losses is no longer feasible, as ticket revenues are now insufficient to cover fuel expenses alone.
The impact of the crisis is already being felt within the sector. One airline has reportedly suspended operations since March 13 due to fuel-related challenges, with other carriers at risk of following suit if conditions persist.
AON warned that the actions of fuel marketers are placing severe strain on the aviation industry and could have wider economic consequences. The group noted that a potential shutdown would affect millions of passengers, disrupt livelihoods, and pose risks to financial stability and national security.
Operators highlighted the difficult choices facing airlines, including raising ticket prices which could reduce passenger demand or halting operations entirely.
Describing aviation as a critical component of Nigeria’s infrastructure, AON called on MEMAN to intervene and align Jet A1 fuel prices with global benchmarks. The group emphasized that airlines cannot continue to operate under the current cost structure.
The letter, which was also copied to senior government officials including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, underscored the urgency of the situation.
AON concluded with a warning that if no action is taken, Nigerian airlines may be forced to cease operations nationwide starting April 20, leaving the industry and the public awaiting a response from both the government and fuel marketers.
About The Author
