Nigeria’s aviation sector could be disrupted as domestic airlines warn they may suspend operations over rising fuel costs.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria issued the notice after aviation fuel surged from ₦900 to over ₦3,300 per litre.
Consequently, the group wrote to the Presidency and regulators, demanding urgent intervention to prevent a shutdown.
“Between February 28, 2026 till date, the product has risen over 300 per cent,” said AON President Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina.
The letter was sent to the offices of the President, Vice President, Aviation Minister, and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.
“The increase is not commensurate with global crude oil trends,” the group added.
Meanwhile, airlines say they have absorbed the cost for weeks to avoid disruption, but operations are now under strain.
“Airlines have endured this burden out of patriotism and service to the nation,” the letter stated.
Airlines Warn Of Collapse As Costs Outpace Revenue
Operators say revenue can no longer cover fuel expenses, which now account for the largest share of operational costs.
“Currently, airline revenues are insufficient to cover the cost of fuel alone,” the group said.
Furthermore, AON warned that continued increases could force more carriers to halt services across the country.
“The situation continues to deteriorate and is clearly unsustainable,” the statement read.
The association also pointed to global benchmarks, noting crude oil prices have risen by only about 30%.
“This astronomical increase is well above international market realities,” AON stated.
One airline has already halted operations since March 13, 2026, due to the rising cost pressure.
“This may become inevitable for other airlines if the situation does not change immediately,” the group warned.
Economic Risks Rise As Deadline Nears
The airlines set Monday, April 20, 2026, as the deadline for government action to address the pricing crisis.
“If this trend persists, all airlines will be compelled to suspend operations,” the letter declared.
The group warned that grounding flights could affect banks, jobs, and national security.
“Financial institutions will be impacted, millions of livelihoods will be lost, and insecurity may increase,” it added.
Meanwhile, raising ticket prices may not offer relief, as higher fares could reduce passenger demand.
“If ticket prices are adjusted, flights will operate with low passenger loads,” the group said.
The crisis also threatens connectivity across Nigeria, where air travel remains vital for business and governance.
The standoff could disrupt the broader economy if unresolved.
“Aviation remains a sector of strategic national importance,” the statement added.
As pressure builds, all eyes are now on the Federal Government to intervene before flights stop nationwide.
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