Nigeria’s domestic airlines may halt operations by Thursday, April 30, 2026. Operators cite soaring aviation fuel costs as the major reason behind the decision. Consequently, the development raises fears of widespread travel disruption nationwide. Industry insiders reveal airlines have engaged government and marketers without success.
However, talks ended without a clear resolution or pricing relief. As a result, operators may ground flights if conditions remain unchanged. Notably, Jet A1 prices have surged by over 300 percent since February. This sharp increase has pushed airline operating costs to unsustainable levels.
Therefore, many carriers now struggle to maintain daily flight schedules. Passengers who depend on domestic travel now face serious uncertainty. Business trips and urgent movements could suffer significant delays or cancellations. Meanwhile, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo recently convened a crucial meeting in Abuja. The meeting included airline operators and fuel marketers seeking a solution.
Although discussions lasted two days, stakeholders failed to reach an agreement. The government later announced a 30 percent reduction in aviation taxes. However, operators insist the measure does not address fuel pricing concerns. According to Allen Onyema, marketers must explain the drastic price increase. He emphasized that airlines currently operate mainly to pay for fuel costs.
Fuel prices have jumped from about N900 per litre to nearly N3,500. This surge has placed immense pressure on airline finances and sustainability. As the deadline approaches, uncertainty continues to cloud Nigeria’s aviation sector. If no action follows, a nationwide flight shutdown appears increasingly likely.
