Nigeria’s domestic aviation industry is on the verge of a major disruption, as airline operators warn they may suspend all flight operations from Monday, April 20, 2026.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) says the sharp and unsustainable rise in the cost of Jet A1 fuel has pushed carriers to a critical breaking point, alleging price manipulation by fuel marketers.
The AON reports that Jet A1 prices have jumped from about N900 per litre at the end of February to nearly N3,300 per litre, representing an increase of over 300 percent within weeks.
This spike far exceeds global oil price trends, with fuel costs now accounting for up to 40 percent of airline operating expenses well above international averages.
In a letter to the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria and copied to President Bola Tinubu, the association stressed that airline earnings can no longer sustain fuel expenses alone. Operators say the current pricing structure has made continued operations economically unviable.
The impact is already being felt, with at least one airline suspending services since mid-March, while others continue to operate under mounting financial pressure.
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Long standing challenges such as foreign exchange constraints and high maintenance costs have further compounded the crisis.
Passengers may face rising airfares, reduced flight frequencies, and possible widespread cancellations as airlines struggle to stay afloat.
Industry stakeholders warn that a shutdown could trigger significant economic consequences, including job losses, reduced business activity, and disruptions to national connectivity.
The AON is calling for urgent government intervention through measures such as fuel price regulation, tax relief, and improved access to foreign exchange.
As discussions continue among key stakeholders, the coming days are expected to be decisive for the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
