- The cost of aviation fuel (Jet A1) has jumped from around ₦900–₦995 to between ₦2,500 and ₦2,700 per litre, driven by supply disruptions from the ongoing conflict in Iran.
- Industry experts predict airfares could increase by 20% to 25% in the coming days, with some operators warning that ticket prices might double if fuel hits the ₦3,000 mark.
- Aviation fuel now accounts for nearly 45% of total airline operating costs, overtaking maintenance as the single largest expense for domestic carriers.
Nigerian domestic airlines are facing a severe operational crisis as the price of aviation fuel has more than doubled in recent weeks.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the surge is largely attributed to the Middle East crisis, which began on February 28, 2026, and has led to a spike in global crude oil prices, currently hovering around $112 per barrel.
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This volatility has forced Jet A1 prices to fluctuate wildly, changing at least five times in less than a month.
United Nigeria Airlines spokesperson, Chibuike Uloka, has raised concerns over the sustainability of current operations.
He noted that while fuel prices have crossed the ₦2,000 threshold, many carriers are still struggling to maintain fares at approximately ₦195,000.
Uloka warned that if the price reaches ₦3,000 per litre, the industry could see a significant reduction in capacity, as not all operators will have the financial stamina to stay airborne.
Industry expert Samuel Caulcrick highlighted a major shift in the sector’s cost structure.
Historically, maintenance was the most expensive component of running an airline, but fuel has now taken the top spot.
With fueling now consuming nearly half of total operational budgets, operators insist they have little choice but to pass the added costs onto passengers to remain optimally functional.
