Nigerian Airlines Threaten Route Cuts Over Fuel Costs

Airline operators in Nigeria are considering shrinking their routes due to the prohibitive cost of aviation fuel, specifically Jet A1. Captain Ado Sanusi, Managing Director and CEO of Aero Contractors, expressed that the high fuel prices are forcing airlines to close routes as operational costs are not being met.

The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has raised alarms about the potential safety breaches and risks associated with pilot fatigue due to stretched work hours. Sanusi emphasized that while there is no scarcity of aviation fuel, the high prices are unsustainable and could compromise safety standards.

He noted that airlines are struggling financially, with profit margins being extremely thin. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing Iran-U.S. impasse affecting fuel prices.

Sanusi indicated that without intervention from the federal government to curb fuel prices, airlines may have to suspend operations or shut down entirely, leading to significant losses.