Domestic carrier Rano Air has suspended flight operations to several northern destinations, including Maiduguri and Gombe, due to the continuous increase in the price of Jet A1, commonly known as aviation fuel. The airline announced the development in a statement posted on its verified X handle and monitored by The Guardian.
According to the airline, aviation fuel prices have surged by over 300 percent within the last two months, rendering operations on certain routes unsustainable. Although Rano Air did not officially name all affected destinations, a source close to the airline confirmed that Maiduguri and Gombe are among the suspended routes. The airline stated that the affected services will remain suspended until there is an improvement in the operating environment.
Passenger Assurance and Options
Rano Air assured passengers with existing bookings that it will provide options, including refunds, rescheduling, or rerouting, to minimize disruption caused by the suspension. The carrier apologized for the inconvenience and appealed for customers' understanding during this period.
Rano Air currently operates flights to destinations including Sokoto, Katsina, Osubi, Abuja, and Lagos, among others.
Industry Reaction
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), the umbrella body of domestic operators, recently expressed regret over the skyrocketing prices of Jet A1. The operators have sought incentives from the government and threatened to suspend operations if their intervention call is not addressed.
