Nigerian airline operators suspend planned shutdown after minister’s intervention over jet fuel crisis, pending further talks with stakeholders.
- +Nigerian Airlines Suspend Planned Shutdown Action Amid Government Intervention
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has announced a temporary suspension of its planned nationwide shutdown of flight operations following intervention by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has announced a temporary suspension of its planned nationwide shutdown of flight operations following intervention by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The decision was reached after an emergency meeting of the association’s Executive Council and Board of Trustees, where members agreed to halt the earlier planned action scheduled for April 20, 2026.
According to a communiqué issued on Friday, the suspension is conditional and intended to allow room for dialogue after the minister appealed for restraint and pledged immediate government action to address concerns raised by airline operators, particularly the rising cost of JetA1 fuel.
The AON noted that the planned shutdown was driven by challenges facing the aviation sector, especially the persistent increase in aviation fuel prices, which has significantly impacted airline operations.
It stated that a follow-up meeting has been scheduled for April 22, 2026, to facilitate further discussions aimed at reaching a lasting and mutually beneficial resolution.
As part of conditions for the suspension, the association urged government agencies and service providers to continue supporting airline operations and refrain from actions that could worsen the situation, including demands for upfront payments and undue pressure on operators.
The AON added that it would await the outcome of the upcoming meeting before taking any further decision on the planned shutdown.
