The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has warned that domestic carriers may halt operations from April 20 due to the sharp rise in aviation fuel costs.
The warning was issued by AON president, Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, in a notice dated April 14 and addressed to Clement Isong, executive secretary of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria.
Copies of the notice were also sent to President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as well as the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to the association, the price of Jet A1 has surged from N900 per litre as of February 28 to N3,300 per litre, reflecting an increase of more than 300 percent.
The group described the spike as “astronomical and artificial,” noting that it does not align with global crude oil price trends, which have risen by about 30 percent.
“For the past four (4) weeks, airlines have endured this burden and continued operations out of patriotism and in the spirit of service to the nation. However, the situation has now become unbearable and clearly unsustainable,” the notice reads.
“Currently, airline revenues are insufficient to cover the cost of fuel alone, which is only one of many operational expenses incurred daily. The situation continues to deteriorate.”
AON stated that the actions of fuel marketers are “decimating” the aviation sector and posing risks to the nation’s economy, safety, and security, as airlines are increasingly being pushed towards shutting down.
It added that one airline has already suspended operations since March 13, warning that others may follow if urgent measures are not taken.
The association noted that raising ticket fares to match fuel costs could reduce passenger numbers, while a full shutdown would have wider implications for financial institutions, employment, and national security.
“Airlines are now facing existential threats, with serious consequences for the broader economy,” AON said.
“We therefore urge you to prevail on marketers to proportionately adjust jet fuel prices in line with international market realities, as airlines can no longer sustain purchases at the current exorbitant rates.
“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.”
The association described the notice as its final appeal on the matter.