Airline operators in Nigeria say they are reaching a breaking point as the cost of jet fuel spirals out of control, warning that flights across the country could grind to a halt as early as April 20, 2026.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) says the price of Jet A1 fuel has jumped from ₦900 per litre in late February to a staggering ₦3,300 in just a matter of weeks—an increase they describe as both shocking and unsustainable.
In a letter to the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria, led by its Executive Secretary Clement Isong, the operators argued that the hike doesn’t reflect global oil price trends and appears artificially inflated. While crude oil prices have risen modestly, airlines say they are being forced to pay far beyond what is reasonable.
For over a month, airlines say they have quietly absorbed the rising costs in a bid to keep Nigerians moving. But that effort, they admit, is no longer sustainable.
“Ticket sales can’t even cover fuel costs anymore,” the group said, painting a grim picture of an industry under severe strain.
The impact is already being felt. One airline has reportedly shut down operations since March, and others may soon follow if nothing changes. The operators warn that this isn’t just an industry problem—it could ripple across the entire economy, affecting jobs, businesses, and even national security.
They say they are stuck between two tough choices: raise ticket prices and risk losing passengers, or suspend flights altogether. Either option, they warn, comes with serious consequences.
Describing aviation as vital to Nigeria’s economy, AON is urging immediate intervention to bring fuel prices back in line with global standards. Without that, they insist, a nationwide shutdown may be unavoidable.
Top government officials, including President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, have been notified as pressure mounts for urgent action.
For now, passengers and industry players alike are watching closely—hoping a solution comes before the skies go quiet.
