Nigerian airlines have warned they may suspend operations as early as April 20 due to a worsening shortage of aviation fuel and rising costs, raising concerns about widespread flight disruptions across the country.
Operators say the dwindling supply of Jet A1 fuel, combined with soaring prices, is pushing the industry to the brink. Some airlines have indicated that continued operations under current conditions are no longer sustainable, with the cost of fuel accounting for a significant portion of operating expenses.
Industry stakeholders report that jet fuel prices have surged sharply in recent weeks, with supply constraints further complicating access. The situation has left airlines struggling to maintain flight schedules, with fears that planes could be grounded if the crisis persists.
Airline operators have collectively warned that without urgent intervention from the federal government and relevant agencies, a shutdown of domestic flights may be unavoidable. The potential disruption could affect thousands of passengers and have wider economic implications, particularly for business travel and logistics.
The crisis highlights longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s aviation sector, including dependence on imported aviation fuel and exposure to global oil market fluctuations. Operators argue that without structural reforms and improved supply mechanisms, such disruptions may continue to recur.
Authorities have yet to announce concrete measures to address the situation, but pressure is mounting for swift action to stabilise fuel supply and prevent a shutdown of airline operations.
The development raises the possibility of significant disruptions in Nigeria’s air travel sector if a resolution is not reached in the coming days.
