Nigerian airlines have announced plans to suspend operations across the country starting April 20, 2026, due to a sharp increase in Jet A1 fuel prices, which have risen above N3,000 per litre.
This development was reported by Channels TV on Wednesday, citing a letter from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) addressed to the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN).
Rising Costs Threaten Sustainability
The AON stated that the escalating fuel prices have made flight operations unsustainable. With airlines struggling to absorb the soaring costs. Without urgent intervention, the industry risks a coordinated shutdown that could disrupt air travel nationwide.
AON’s Final Appeal
In their letter, AON warned that Nigerian airlines would be forced to halt operations if the current fuel price trend continues. They described the notice as a last-ditch effort after weeks of enduring rising costs.
“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 letter read.
The group highlighted that Jet A1 prices had surged from approximately N900 per litre in late February to around N3,300 per litre. A staggering increase of over 300%. Airline revenues are now insufficient to cover fuel costs alone, making operations commercially unviable.
AON also claimed the price spike is “artificial” and far exceeds global crude oil trends. Which rose by only 30% during the same period.
Industry Impact and National Concerns
Despite operating for weeks out of patriotism, airlines say the financial burden has become unsustainable. AON warned that the pricing crisis is already “decimating the aviation industry” and could have severe consequences for national security, the economy, and millions of livelihoods if left unaddressed.
Background on the Issue
The warning follows earlier concerns from industry stakeholders about rising Jet A1 prices. Aviation fuel had already crossed N2,000 per litre weeks ago, sparking fears of fare hikes and reduced flight schedules.
Since then, prices have climbed further, exceeding N3,000 per litre as of April 15, 2026. This has intensified pressure on airlines, which are already grappling with high operating costs.
Experts have noted that Jet A1 accounts for over 40% of Nigerian airlines operating expenses in Nigeria. Making it the largest cost driver in the sector. Fuel marketers have also struggled to maintain consistent supplies, adding to the challenges faced by operators.
Broader Industry Outlook
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) projects that African airlines will remain marginally profitable in 2026, with passenger traffic expected to grow by 6%. However, the region continues to face some of the highest operating costs globally, leaving airlines with razor-thin margins.
African carriers are forecasted to achieve a net profit of approximately $0.2 billion in 2026, operating with an average net margin of -1%.
