Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have suspended their planned shutdown of flight operations, initially set for Monday, April 20, 2026, over rising aviation fuel prices. The decision follows an emergency meeting held Friday and is conditional on the outcome of a scheduled meeting with Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. AON described the suspension as "concessionary but conditional," citing a surge in Jet A1 fuel prices from N900 per litre on February 28, 2026, to N3,300 per litre by Wednesday, April 15, 2026—a hike exceeding 300 percent. The association called on the minister to direct government agencies and service providers to continue supporting airlines without demanding upfront payments for services. AON warned that its patience is limited and future actions will depend on the outcome of the ministerial meeting. The group had previously threatened to halt all operations if the fuel pricing issue remained unresolved.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria are negotiating soaring fuel costs while still being asked to make upfront payments by government agencies, a contradiction that undermines their operational viability. If Jet A1 has jumped to N3,300 per litre and airlines must pay for services in advance, passengers may face immediate fare hikes or reduced flight availability. Nigerians who rely on domestic air travel could bear the cost of this unresolved pricing and payment standoff. The outcome of the April 22 meeting with the aviation minister will determine whether relief or disruption lies ahead.
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