Nigerian domestic airlines have issued a final 48-hour ultimatum to the government as skyrocketing fuel prices threaten to ground the entire industry by Thursday. The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) warn that a 7-day operational shutdown will begin on April 30, 2026, if no action is taken.
Breaking Point: 300% Price Surge
The price of aviation fuel (Jet A1) has surged from ₦900 to ₦3,300 per litre in just two months, now accounting for over 70% of total airline operating expenses. AON President Abdulmunaf Sarina and Vice President Allen Onyema have labelled the hike unsustainable. “Currently, airline revenues are insufficient to cover the cost of fuel alone,” the AON stated in a formal petition. “We have operated out of patriotism for weeks, but the situation has become unbearable.”
Deadlock in Abuja
Last week's attempts to solve the problem failed. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo offered to cut some taxes by 30% and reduce airline debts, but the airlines say these steps do not address the main issue: the soaring cost of fuel. Airlines blame fuel suppliers for the high prices, noting that while global oil prices rose by about 30% due to the Middle East conflict, local prices in Nigeria tripled.
The Dangote Factor and Supply Chain Woes
Even though the Dangote Refinery is producing fuel, airlines say prices remain unjustifiably high. Supply chain issues exacerbate the situation, with fuel not reaching airports in a timely manner.
What Happens on Thursday?
If no resolution is reached, all domestic flights will be grounded, causing massive disruptions to passenger transit, cargo logistics, and medical supply chains. International airlines may still operate but will need to bring their own fuel or face delays. Key domestic carriers, including Air Peace, United Nigeria, and Ibom Air, have already reduced flights, and some international routes like Air Peace's London-Heathrow service have been cut back. The Federal Government has not yet issued a final response to the Thursday deadline.
