Domestic airline Rano Air has announced the temporary suspension of some of its flight operations following the sharp rise in aviation fuel prices.
The airline disclosed the development in a public statement issued on Friday.
Fuel Price Surge Hits Operations
Rano Air said the rising cost of Jet A1 fuel has placed severe pressure on airline operations across the country.
According to the carrier, aviation fuel prices have increased by more than 300 per cent, making several routes difficult to sustain.
“Rano Air wishes to inform the general public and our valued passengers that, due to the unprecedented escalation in the cost of Jet A1 aviation fuel by over 300 per cent, the operational cost of sustaining some of our routes has become extremely challenging and commercially unsustainable,” the statement read.
Airline Suspends Some Routes
The airline explained that management decided to scale down operations after careful consideration.
It noted that the worsening fuel crisis continues to affect airlines nationwide.
“This significant increase in fuel prices has greatly impacted the aviation industry and placed enormous pressure on our flight operations,” the airline stated.
“In view of the current situation, Rano Air has taken the difficult but necessary decision to suspend some of our routes temporarily.”
The airline did not immediately disclose the affected routes.
Passengers to Receive Support
Rano Air apologised to passengers and business partners over the disruption.
The airline assured customers that support measures had already been arranged for affected travellers.
Passengers with existing bookings will receive refund, rescheduling, or rerouting options.
“We sincerely regret the inconvenience this may cause to our esteemed passengers and business partners,” the statement added.
The carrier also directed its customer service team to assist passengers affected by the temporary suspension.
Industry Faces Growing Pressure
Airlines across Nigeria continue to battle rising operational expenses driven by increasing fuel costs and foreign exchange challenges.
Operators have repeatedly warned that the high cost of Jet A1 fuel threatens the sustainability of domestic flight operations.
Rano Air expressed optimism that normal operations would resume once fuel prices become more stable and financially manageable.
