Airline operators across the country on Friday , 24th of April, 2026 have issued a stern ultimatum to fuel suppliers and government regulators, threatening to ground all flights for a full seven days unless the price of Jet A1 aviation fuel is significantly reduced.
The announcement was made by one of the airline’s executives, who also doubles as the Chairman of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema during an interview with newsmen in Abuja, the nations Capital.
The operators, speaking through their industry association, described the current fuel pricing as “economically catastrophic,” warning that airlines are haemorrhaging millions daily and cannot sustain operations at the current rate. The deadline, they say, is firm and the consequences of inaction will be felt by hundreds of thousands of passengers.
The threat comes amid a prolonged surge in global crude oil prices, which industry insiders say has pushed Jet A1 costs to near-record highs in recent months.
Airline executives argue that, unlike road transport operators who can pass costs on incrementally, aviation carriers are locked into pre-sold tickets and long-term contracts that make absorbing sudden fuel price increases nearly impossible.
Several smaller regional carriers have already reported operating at a loss, with executives warning that a shutdown, while disruptive, may be the only leverage available to force meaningful negotiations with suppliers and the relevant government ministries.
Regulators and fuel suppliers have so far responded cautiously, with government officials urging dialogue while stopping short of committing to any price intervention.
In their response, passenger advocacy groups have raised alarm over the potential disruption, noting that a seven-day aviation shutdown would cripple business travel, disrupt cargo supply chains, and strand thousands of passengers at airports.
With the deadline fast approaching, all eyes are on emergency talks expected to be convened in the coming days talks that analysts say must deliver a concrete outcome if the skies are to remain open.
