Nigerian Airlines Struggle Despite Fuel Supply Stability

Nigerian airlines are experiencing a shrinking market despite relative stability in foreign exchange and a reliable supply of aviation fuel. Captain Ado Sanusi, Managing Director and CEO of Aero Contractors, noted that while fuel supply has stabilized due to the Dangote Refinery, the high cost of aviation fuel remains a significant challenge.

He stated that average fares for one-hour flights are around N120,000/N100,000, which do not reflect market conditions. Limited capacity and ineffective servicing of many routes, including Osubi, Akure, Ilorin, and Ibadan, contribute to the airlines' struggles.

Chibuike Uloka, Public Relations Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, criticized the high price of aviation fuel at N2000 per litre and accused some airlines of underpricing their tickets, questioning their operational viability. He also alleged that oil marketers create artificial scarcity to inflate prices, although he acknowledged that supply has stabilized if airlines are willing to pay high prices.