Nigerians are bracing for major travel disruptions as domestic carriers have resolved to suspend flight operations from Thursday, April 30, 2026 .
The decision, confirmed by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), follows a prolonged standoff with the Federal Government and oil marketers over the exorbitant price of aviation fuel (Jet A1). Operators report that fuel costs have risen from N900 per litre in February to over N3,300 per litre today, representing a staggering 300% increase .
“No airline will fly in this country in the next seven days if nothing is done,” warned Allen Onyema, Vice President of AON, noting that revenues are currently being devoured by fuel bills .
Dashed Hopes for Reprieve
Despite a meeting with the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, airlines insist that the 30% debt relief offered by President Tinubu is “insufficient.”
“All the airlines in Nigeria have been flying to pay fuel marketers only,” Onyema stated, describing the situation as an existential threat .
For now, travellers are advised to contact their airlines for rescheduling options. Ibom Air has already released an official advisory confirming the Thursday shutdown, urging passengers to make alternative arrangements .
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