Domestic airline operators in Nigeria have raised serious concerns over the sharp increase in the price of aviation fuel, also known as Jet A1, which has reportedly surged to about ₦1,800 per litre in some parts of the country.
Industry stakeholders say the rising cost of aviation fuel is placing significant financial pressure on airline companies, warning that the development could affect flight operations and lead to higher airfares for passengers.
According to airline operators, aviation fuel accounts for a large percentage of airline operating costs, sometimes representing more than 40 percent of total expenses. As a result, any significant increase in fuel prices can have a direct impact on the cost of running flights.
Operators explained that the continuous rise in fuel prices has made it increasingly difficult for airlines to maintain stable ticket prices while still covering operational expenses such as aircraft maintenance, airport charges, staff salaries, and insurance.
Industry leaders have therefore called on the Federal Government and relevant aviation authorities to urgently address the situation in order to prevent disruptions within the aviation sector.
Some airline executives warned that if the trend continues, operators may be forced to adjust ticket prices or reduce the number of flights on certain routes to remain financially sustainable.
Nigeria’s aviation sector has experienced several challenges in recent years, including foreign exchange shortages, rising operational costs, and fluctuating fuel prices.
Jet A1 fuel is typically influenced by global crude oil prices, exchange rate movements, and supply chain conditions, meaning domestic airlines are often affected by international market changes.
Passengers have also begun expressing concerns that higher aviation fuel prices could translate into more expensive air travel, making flights less affordable for many Nigerians.
Travel analysts note that increasing airfares could potentially affect tourism, business travel, and cargo transportation, which rely heavily on efficient and affordable air services.
Despite these challenges, aviation stakeholders continue to emphasize the importance of maintaining a stable and competitive aviation industry, which plays a crucial role in connecting cities, facilitating trade, and supporting economic growth.
Some experts have suggested that improving domestic fuel supply, strengthening refining capacity, and stabilizing the exchange rate could help reduce pressure on the aviation sector.
The situation has also prompted renewed calls for long-term policy reforms aimed at making aviation fuel more accessible and affordable for Nigerian airlines….See More
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