Lagos: Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has warned that domestic flights may be suspended from April 20 due to the persistent rise in the price of Jet A1, also known as aviation fuel.
The body issued a notice signed by its President, Dr Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina, on Wednesday in Lagos.
Sarina said Jet A1 now costs N3,300 per litre, up from N900 in February, a 300 per cent increase.
He said the price hikes by marketers have greatly increased airlines’ operational costs.
He noted that the rise did not align with global crude oil price trends, which reflect about a 30 per cent increase.
Sarina said airlines had continued operations over the past four weeks despite rising costs, out of a sense of responsibility to the nation.
However, he said the situation is no longer sustainable.
Currently, airline revenues are insufficient to cover fuel costs alone, which is only one of many operational expenses incurred daily.
He said actions by fuel marketers are putting the aviation industry and the nation’s economy, safety, and security at risk. Airlines may have to suspend operations.
He added that one airline has already suspended operations due to fuel prices as of March 13.
Sarina warned that the situation could worsen if urgent action is not taken.
He noted that raising ticket prices to cover fuel costs could reduce passenger numbers, while halting flights would hurt jobs, banks, and security.
He urged marketers to align jet fuel prices with international market rates, as airlines cannot keep buying at current prices.
The notice targeted the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria and copied President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, among others.