The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has warned that domestic flight operations may be suspended from April 20, 2026, following what it described as an “astronomical and unsustainable” increase in the price of Jet A1 fuel.
In a letter dated April 14, 2026, and addressed to the Executive Secretary of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), Clement Isong, the operators said aviation fuel prices have risen sharply within weeks, placing severe pressure on airline operations across the country.
The association stated that the cost of Jet A1 has increased from about ₦900 ($0.67) per litre as of February 28 to approximately ₦3,300 ($2.45) per litre, representing an increase of more than 300 per cent.
It noted that the jump in price is “artificial” and does not reflect global crude oil movements, which it said have risen by only about 30 per cent over the same period.
Airlines say costs have become unsustainable
According to the AON, airlines have absorbed the rising cost burden for several weeks in what it described as an effort to sustain operations in the interest of the public.
“Airline revenues are insufficient to cover the cost of fuel alone,” the group said, adding that the situation has reached a point where continued flight operations are no longer viable under current conditions.
The operators also warned that the current pricing structure is putting pressure on the entire aviation value chain and could have wider consequences for safety, economic activity, and national connectivity.
The association disclosed that at least one airline had already grounded its operations since March 13, 2026, due to the rising cost of aviation fuel.
It cautioned that more operators may be forced to shut down if the situation continues.
Deadline issued to fuel marketers
The AON therefore directed its concerns to fuel marketers, urging immediate intervention to address what it described as a worsening pricing situation.
The association said airlines now face two difficult options: increase ticket prices significantly or suspend operations entirely. It warned that higher fares could reduce passenger demand, while shutdowns would disrupt travel and economic activity nationwide.
“We hereby give notice that if this trend persists, all airlines in Nigeria will be compelled to suspend operations effective Monday, April 20, 2026,” the letter stated.
The group described the notice as a final appeal to stakeholders to intervene.
Concern over wider economic impact
Moreover, the airline operators also raised concerns about the broader implications of a potential shutdown, warning that it could affect financial institutions, disrupt businesses, and impact thousands of jobs linked to aviation.
They further argued that sustained disruption in air transport could worsen existing security and mobility challenges across the country.
The letter was copied to key government officials, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Minister of Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and the Department of State Services.
