Jet A1 Fuel Hits N2,700, Nigerian Airlines Brace for Fare Hikes

Lagos, Nigeria – Nigerian airlines are facing severe operational pressures as the price of Jet A1 aviation fuel has surged from N900–N995 per litre to between N2,500 and N2,700. The sharp increase, driven by disruptions in the Middle East conflict, now accounts for nearly 45% of airline operating costs and threatens to push ticket prices well beyond the current N195,000 for domestic flights.

Chibuike Uloka, spokesperson for United Nigeria Airlines, called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to consider the strain on carriers: “This is a critical time for regulators to understand how airlines have managed to sustain tickets at N195,000 despite fuel costs crossing N2,000 per litre. If prices reach N3,000, not all operators will be able to maintain flights.”

Since the February 28 outbreak of war in Iran, fuel prices have fluctuated five times, with crude oil jumping from $65–$69 per barrel to $112. Dangote Refinery’s reliance on imported crude has further pushed up gantry costs. Industry analyst Samuel Caulcrick predicts an immediate 20–25% increase in airfares as fuel and maintenance dominate airline expenditures.

Carriers are carefully monitoring the situation but warn that if fuel hits N3,000 per litre, capacity reductions are inevitable. Airlines have also dismissed recent FCCPC allegations of price-fixing, noting that their current focus is survival rather than profit.

The ongoing global energy disruption, combined with local refining challenges, is forcing airlines to reconsider fare structures and operational capacity. Smaller carriers may be forced to ground flights, while larger operators could consolidate routes, putting passengers at risk of higher fares and reduced availability.