Air travellers across Nigeria are currently facing major disruptions as a worsening shortage of aviation fuel, Jet A1, continues to affect flight operations at major airports nationwide
Airlines say the persistent scarcity has made it increasingly difficult to maintain scheduled services, leading to frequent delays, last-minute rescheduling, and in some cases outright cancellations. The situation has left many passengers stranded and frustrated, with several forced to abandon or rethink their travel plans.
The crisis has also sparked tensions within the aviation sector. Ground handling companies have reportedly threatened to suspend services to indigenous airlines over an estimated N9 billion debt, further raising concerns about possible worsening disruptions.
Operators have linked the rising cost of Jet A1—said to have increased by over 300 per cent—to global oil market pressures triggered by geopolitical tensions, including the US-Israel conflict involving Iran and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global fuel shipping route.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) had earlier threatened to shut down operations over the fuel crisis, but suspended the plan following intervention by the Federal Government, which initiated talks with stakeholders under the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Although follow-up meetings were held with oil marketers and aviation stakeholders, no immediate relief has been reached. However, a 30 per cent discount on debts owed to service providers was reportedly approved, while airlines continue to push for a full waiver of debts owed to agencies such as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
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