The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has warned that airlines across the nation may suspend operations from April 20, 2026, due what it describes as an “astronomical and unsustainable” rise in the price of JetA1 fuel.
AON stated in a letter dated April 14, 2026, to Mr. Clement Isong, Executive Secretary of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), that the price of aviation fuel has increased by more than 300 percent in a matter of weeks.
The price went from ₦900 per litre on February 28 to ₦3,300 per litre.
The agency claims that the spike is “artificial” and significantly outpaces worldwide trends, pointing out that the price of crude oil has only increased by roughly 30% globally during that time.
‘Detrimental to national wellbeing’
AON further decried that airlines have continued to absorb the rising costs for over four weeks out of “patriotism and in the spirit of service to the nation.”
They however warned that the burden is no longer manageable.
Additionally, the group warned that fuel marketers’ actions were “decimating the aviation industry” and endangering Nigeria’s national security, economy, and safety.
The AON also disclosed that the high cost of fuel has already forced one airline to suspend all operations since March 13, 2026, showing that the sector is already feeling the impact of the price surge.
Consequently, it warned that more carriers could follow if authorities fail to take urgent action.
Final Notice to Marketers
AON also stated that the industry now faces a difficult decision.
Either suspending operations completely which would have far-reaching effects, or boosting ticket prices to reflect fuel costs could result in low passenger turnout.
The AON insisted that airlines can no longer continue to make purchases at the current rates.
Conclusively, it urged MEMAN to step in and guarantee that jet fuel prices be changed to reflect the realities of the global market.
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