Domestic airlines in Nigeria may suspend operations from Thursday, April 30, 2026, over rising aviation fuel costs operators describe as unsustainable. The planned action, if carried out, could disrupt travel nationwide as talks with government officials and fuel suppliers have yet to produce a resolution.

Industry sources said carriers are struggling with a sharp increase in the price of Jet A1, which has surged by more than 300 per cent since February. The spike has pushed operating expenses significantly higher, leaving airlines warning that continued flights may no longer be viable.

Efforts to resolve the situation included a meeting in Abuja between the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, airline representatives and fuel marketers. Although the government announced a 30 per cent reduction in aviation-related taxes after the discussions, operators said the measure does not directly address the cost of fuel.

Airline operators said the price of aviation fuel has climbed from about N900 per litre before the recent surge to between roughly N2,700 and N2,900, with some suppliers quoting even higher figures. They argued that the increase has forced airlines to operate largely to cover fuel expenses while trying not to compromise safety.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria also requested additional relief measures, including suspension of certain charges and the introduction of a fuel surcharge to cushion rising costs. The group warned that the current situation threatens jobs and the stability of the aviation industry.

As the deadline approaches, uncertainty remains over domestic air travel. Industry officials say flights could be grounded if no immediate intervention is made to reduce fuel prices or provide further support.