By Our Correspondent
National News – Nigerian airlines are facing mounting operational pressure following a sharp surge in aviation fuel prices, commonly known as Jet A1, which has risen by about 100 per cent in recent weeks.
Industry stakeholders warned that the spike could soon force airlines to increase ticket fares for passengers across the country.
The increase affects domestic airline operators across Nigeria, where aviation fuel is a critical component of airline operations.
According to industry checks, Jet A1 prices, which previously ranged between N900 and N995 per litre, have climbed to between N2,500 and N2,700 per litre, depending on the airport location.
Experts say the sudden increase is linked to the Middle East crisis and the war in Iran, which began on February 28, 2026.
The conflict has slowed crude oil production and disrupted global supply chains, pushing crude oil prices from about $65–$69 per barrel to roughly $112 per barrel.
Airline operators say the development has significantly increased their operating costs because aviation fuel accounts for a major portion of airline expenditure.
Previously representing 30 to 35 per cent of operational costs, the fuel component is now estimated to account for around 45 per cent, making it the single largest cost factor in the aviation sector.
The spokesperson for United Nigeria Airlines, Chibuike Uloka, called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to engage domestic airlines to understand how operators have continued to maintain ticket prices despite soaring fuel costs.
According to him, many airlines have managed to keep fares around N195,000, but such pricing may not remain sustainable for long.
Uloka warned that if aviation fuel prices climb further toward N3,000 per litre, several airlines may struggle to continue operations.
He noted that operators are currently prioritising survival rather than profit, stressing that continued cost increases could reduce airline capacity and lead to higher ticket prices for passengers.
Aviation industry expert Samuel Caulcrick also predicted that airfares could rise by 20 to 25 per cent in the coming weeks as airlines attempt to balance rising fuel costs with operational sustainability.
He explained that the shift marks a major change in the airline cost structure.
In the past, aircraft maintenance represented the highest expense, but the persistent surge in Jet A1 prices has made fuel the dominant operational cost.
