Domestic airlines in Nigeria have threatened to suspend operations from Monday, April 20, 2026, following a steep increase in the price of Jet A1 aviation fuel.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) stated the price surged from ₦900 per litre as of February 28 to ₦3,300 per litre, representing an increase of over 300%.

The association described the increase as “artificial” and warned that revenues are now insufficient to cover fuel costs, which account for more than 40% of operating expenses.

AON’s final appeal letter noted that one airline had already grounded operations on March 13, 2026, adding that other carriers could follow suit.

Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo appealed to the AON in a letter dated April 16, 2026, urging airline operators to exercise restraint and avoid any immediate airfare increases or suspension of flight operations.

Keyamo acknowledged the cost pressures but warned that higher ticket prices would impose significant hardship on the travelling public, while a shutdown would disrupt critical mobility networks, erode public confidence, and undermine recent sector reforms.

The Minister disclosed that a high-level emergency stakeholders’ meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Abuja, bringing together regulatory authorities to seek a practical resolution. He assured operators that the Federal Government is actively working to address the crisis.

The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) responded by disputing the ₦3,300 price, stating it is over ₦1,000 above their average market survey price. MEMAN advised any operator paying that amount to seek alternative suppliers, noting that cheaper options are available.

The association attributed the price increase to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting global supply chains.