Nigeria’s domestic aviation sector is facing the risk of a full shutdown as airline operators warn they may suspend flight operations from Thursday due to sharply rising aviation fuel costs.

Industry players say the cost of Jet A1 has risen to what they describe as an unsustainable level, forcing airlines into a financial squeeze that could make continued operations impossible.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) said discussions with government officials and fuel suppliers have so far failed to produce a workable solution, despite several emergency meetings aimed at preventing disruption.

Operators explain that the price of aviation fuel has increased dramatically in recent months, putting severe pressure on airlines already struggling with high operating expenses. They argue that ticket revenues are no longer enough to cover fuel consumption, leaving many carriers operating at a loss.

In response to the crisis, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, recently met with airline executives and fuel marketers in Abuja. Although the government announced a temporary reduction in aviation-related charges, airline operators say the move does not address the core issue of fuel pricing.

Airline leaders insist that the continued rise in jet fuel costs is the main threat to the survival of the sector. They are also demanding greater transparency from fuel suppliers over what they describe as unexplained price increases.

Some operators have issued warnings that if no urgent action is taken, flights across the country could be grounded within days, potentially disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers and affecting business activities nationwide.

In addition to calls for price regulation, the airlines are also requesting broader reforms, including temporary suspension of certain aviation taxes and a review of existing charges to align with global standards. They argue that such measures would provide short-term relief while longer-term solutions are developed.