The Airline Operators of Nigeria has warned that domestic airlines may suspend operations nationwide from April 20, 2026, citing an alarming rise in the cost of Jet A1 fuel.
In a letter addressed to the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria, the airline body revealed that aviation fuel prices have skyrocketed from ₦900 per litre in late February to about ₦3,300 per litre, representing an increase of over 300 percent within a few weeks.
The operators described the surge as artificial and inconsistent with global oil market trends, noting that international crude oil prices have only risen by about 30 percent within the same period.
According to the group, airlines have continued to absorb the rising costs for several weeks out of commitment to national service, but warned that the situation is no longer sustainable. They stated that current revenues are insufficient to cover fuel expenses alone, placing the entire aviation sector under severe financial strain.
The association also disclosed that at least one airline has already halted operations since March 13 due to the escalating cost of fuel, warning that more carriers could follow if urgent action is not taken.
It further cautioned that the pricing situation is negatively impacting the aviation industry and could have wider consequences for Nigeria’s economy, safety, and national security. Airlines now face difficult choices between increasing ticket prices, which could reduce passenger demand, or suspending operations entirely.
The group stressed that a shutdown would disrupt millions of livelihoods, affect financial institutions, and potentially worsen insecurity across the country.
In its appeal, the AON urged MEMAN to intervene and ensure that jet fuel prices reflect global market realities, insisting that continued operations under current conditions are no longer viable.
Top government officials, including Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, aviation authorities, and security agencies were copied in the correspondence.
The warning has raised fresh concerns about the ility of Nigeria’s aviation sector, as stakeholders await urgent responses from both government and fuel marketers.
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