The Federal Government has called on domestic airline to suspend any plans to halt flight operations and reconsider proposed increases in airfares, following the steep surge in the cost of Jet A1 aviation fuel.
The appeal was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a formal letter addressed to the Airline Operators of Nigeria on Thursday. The intervention comes amid mounting tension within the aviation sector, as several airlines reportedly threatened to suspend services as early as next week due to the unsustainable rise in operating costs driven largely by fuel prices.
In the correspondence, the minister acknowledged receipt of the airlines’ earlier communication dated April 14, 2026, which outlined the severe operational challenges currently confronting the industry. Central to these concerns is the dramatic increase in the price of Jet A1 fuel, which has risen sharply from ₦900 per litre as of February 28, 2026, to approximately ₦3,300 per litre in recent days a staggering increase of about 300 per cent.
Describing the situation as critical, Keyamo urged airline operators to exercise patience and restraint, emphasising the broader economic implications that a shutdown of flight operations or a significant hike in ticket prices could have on Nigerians and the national economy. He noted that the government remains committed to engaging relevant stakeholders to find sustainable solutions to the crisis.
READ RELATED STORY
Air travel disrupted as airlines avoid Middle East skies
Airline saga: Mixed reactions trail ‘assaulted’ passenger Emmanson narration of incident
Airline group condemns Oshiomhole’s conduct as Keyamo orders investigation
The minister also praised the resilience and professionalism demonstrated by domestic airlines in the face of persistent challenges within the aviation industry. He acknowledged their role in maintaining vital air transport services despite the harsh operating environment, characterised by fluctuating fuel costs, foreign exchange constraints, and other infrastructural limitations.
“At the outset, I wish to commend the resilience, professionalism, and steadfast commitment of your members in sustaining air transport services under evidently difficult conditions,” the letter stated.
Industry observers warn that the ongoing fuel crisis poses a serious threat to the stability of Nigeria’s aviation sector if urgent measures are not implemented. However, the government’s latest appeal signals a willingness to collaborate with operators to avert disruptions and ensure the continued movement of passengers and goods across the country.
