KEY POINTS
- NAAPE warns Jet A1 shortages are increasing flight safety risks due to crew fatigue and disrupted schedules.
- Airlines are already cutting routes and facing rising costs as fuel prices surge.
- Aviation union urges government and regulators (NCAA, NMDPRA) to urgently stabilise fuel supply and pricing.
The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, NAAPE, has urged the Federal Government and aviation regulators to urgently address the ongoing Jet A1 aviation fuel crisis, warning that persistent shortages are increasing safety risks in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The union said the situation is already disrupting flight operations nationwide, forcing airlines to adjust schedules, delay departures, and cut routes due to rising operational pressure.
NAAPE President, Bunmi Gindeh, said the fuel supply disruptions are causing extended flight duty hours for crew members, a situation that could compromise safety.
He explained that prolonged duty periods linked to delays and schedule changes are pushing pilots and engineers beyond safe operational limits.
According to him, fatigue affects cognitive ability, reaction time, and situational awareness—key factors in aviation safety.
The association also warned that airlines are under growing financial pressure as grounded aircraft continue to generate costs without revenue, leading to delayed salaries and worsening working conditions for aviation staff.
Airlines already cutting routes as fuel prices surge
The warning comes amid worsening Jet A1 availability and rising prices across Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Several airlines, including Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines, Ibom Air, and Rano Air, have reportedly faced disruptions ranging from delays to route suspensions.
Rano Air recently suspended some routes, citing a sharp increase in aviation fuel costs and unsustainable operating expenses.
Industry operators say aviation fuel remains one of the biggest cost drivers for Nigerian airlines, accounting for a significant share of total operating expenses.
NAAPE called on the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and fuel suppliers to coordinate urgent interventions to stabilise Jet A1 supply.
The union warned that without immediate action, continued disruptions could deepen operational instability, increase safety risks, and further weaken Nigeria’s aviation industry.
