Domestic carriers in Nigeria have called off their planned suspension of flight operations, opting instead for dialogue with the Federal Government amid escalating concerns over aviation fuel costs.
The decision by members of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) followed an appeal by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who urged restraint and convened an emergency stakeholders’ meeting to address the crisis. In a communiqué issued after an emergency session, the airlines described their move as a temporary and conditional concession, noting that further action will depend on the outcome of the scheduled talks.
The operators had earlier threatened to ground flights from April 20, citing what they described as an unsustainable surge in the price of Jet A1, which they said had risen sharply within weeks and was eroding already thin operating margins. According to the group, the cost of fuel alone now exceeds airline revenues, placing the industry under severe financial strain.
Responding to the situation, the government acknowledged the pressures facing operators and appealed for caution, warning that a shutdown or sudden fare increases could disrupt economic activities, reduce passenger demand, and undermine ongoing reforms in the aviation sector. The minister emphasised the strategic importance of air transport to national connectivity, trade, and security, assuring operators that their concerns were receiving urgent attention.
As part of the resolution, both parties agreed to meet to explore practical and sustainable solutions to the pricing dispute and broader cost challenges affecting the industry. The airlines stressed that their willingness to suspend the shutdown reflects a commitment to national interest, but warned that the gesture should not be mistaken for a resolution of the underlying issues.
Meanwhile, operational challenges persist across the sector, with recent bird strike incidents further highlighting safety and infrastructure concerns. Industry stakeholders say the coming days will be critical in determining whether dialogue can stabilise the sector or if disruptions may still loom.
