The Airline Operators of Nigeria(AON) has threatened to suspend operations if what it described as exploitative pricing of aviation fuel also known as jet -,A1 continues by Monday, April 20, 2026.
The threat is contained in a letter titled, “Re : Urgent Call For Proportionate Review of Jet A1 Price addressed to Mr. Clement Isong
The Executive Secretary / Executive Officer Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria.and signed by AON President, Alhaji Abdulmunaf Sarina.
“Our letter dated March 30, 2026, on the above subject matter refers.
Permit us to further bring to your notice that the price of Jet A1 as sold by marketers has risen significantly from the initial ₦900/litre as at February 28, 2026, to ₦3,300/litre as at today. This represents an increase of over 300%. This astronomical and artificial increase is not commensurate with the rise in crude oil prices and is well above international market benchmarks, which reflect approximately a 30% increase in crude oil cost.
“For the past four (4) weeks, airlines have endured this burden and continued operations out of patriotism and in the spirit of service to the nation,” AON said.
The operators, however, lamented that the situation has now become unbearable and clearly unsustainable.
AON pointed out that currently, airline revenues are insufficient to cover the cost of fuel alone, which is only one of many operational expenses incurred daily and that the situation has continued to deteriorate.
The actions of fuel marketers, AON said are effectively decimating the aviation industry and putting the nation’s economy, safety, and security at risk, as airlines are gradually being forced to suspend operations.
AON contended this arbitrary increase has already severely impacted one airline, forcing it to ground all operations since March 13, 2026.
This, it said may become inevitable for other airlines if the situation does not change immediately.
Aviation, the operators said remains a sector of strategic national importance, adding that the continued arbitrary rise in jet fuel prices is both unhealthy and detrimental to national wellbeing.
Airlines,it added are now facing existential threats, with serious consequences for the broader economy.
AON submitted that f ticket prices are adjusted to reflect the current cost of aviation fuel, flights will operate with low passenger loads and conversely, if airlines cease operations, financial institutions will be impacted, millions of livelihoods will be lost, and insecurity may increase.
“We therefore urge you to prevail on marketers to proportionately adjust jet fuel prices in line with international market realities, as airlines can no longer sustain purchases at the current exorbitant rates.
‘Accordingly, we hereby give NOTICE that 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.
‘Please accept the assurances of our highest esteem and consideration.
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