Domestic airlines in Nigeria have warned they may suspend operations nationwide from April 20, 2026, following an unprecedented surge in aviation fuel prices, raising fears of widespread disruption to air travel and economic activity.
The warning, issued by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), comes as the cost of Jet A1 fuel has climbed above ₦3,000 per litre, with some operators reporting prices as high as ₦3,300. The development was first reported by Channels Television.
In a letter addressed to the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), the airline body described the situation as unsustainable, warning that operators can no longer absorb the escalating costs.
AON said the notice represents a last attempt to avert a complete shutdown of domestic flight operations.
“Accordingly, we hereby give notice that if this trend persists, all airlines in Nigeria will be compelled to suspend operations effective Monday, April 20, 2026. This serves as our final appeal,” the group stated.
According to the association, Jet A1 prices have surged by more than 300% within weeks—rising from about ₦900 per litre as of late February to current levels exceeding ₦3,000.
Airlines Under Severe Financial Pressure
Operators say the spike has rendered flight operations commercially unviable, with fuel costs now exceeding total revenue on some routes. Despite attempts to maintain services, airlines say they have been operating at a loss.
The group also questioned the pricing dynamics, describing the increase as “artificial” and disproportionate to global crude oil trends, which have risen by roughly 30% over the same period.
Wider Economic and Security Risks
AON warned that a shutdown of domestic aviation would have far-reaching consequences, including:
- Disruption of business travel and supply chains
- Economic losses across multiple sectors
- Job risks for thousands of aviation workers
- Potential national security concerns due to reduced mobility
The association added that airlines had continued operations in recent weeks out of a sense of national responsibility but stressed that the burden is no longer sustainable.
The looming shutdown intensifies pressure on regulators and the federal government to intervene in the aviation fuel market. Stakeholders are calling for urgent measures, including price stabilization mechanisms and improved fuel supply logistics.
If no resolution is reached before April 20, Nigeria could face one of its most significant aviation disruptions in recent years.
