The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has warned that the ongoing Jet A1 aviation fuel crisis could force more Nigerian airlines to suspend routes, scale down operations, and potentially lay off workers if urgent action is not taken.
NAAPE President, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, gave the warning in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday.
Gindeh described the fuel shortage as a growing threat to the sustainability of the aviation industry and the nation’s economy.
According to him, early signs of operational restructuring are already emerging among domestic carriers struggling with disruptions caused by inadequate fuel supply.
He cited the recent reduction of operational routes by Rano Air as evidence of the mounting pressure on airlines.
“Should the situation remain unaddressed, we anticipate further route suspensions, potential cessation of operations by some carriers, and significant job losses across the aviation sector,” Gindeh said.
The association noted that grounded and delayed flights continue to inflict financial losses on airline operators, as fixed operational costs persist despite reduced revenue generation.
NAAPE said the economic strain is also affecting aviation workers through delayed salary payments, wage cuts, and worsening welfare conditions for pilots and engineers.
The body further warned that the crisis could have wider implications for the national economy, given the strategic role of aviation in driving trade, tourism, business activities, and connectivity across the country.
Beyond the economic impact, the association raised concerns over flight safety, stressing that persistent delays and disruptions are extending crew duty periods and increasing fatigue levels among aviation personnel.
It explained that fatigue remains one of the most critical safety risks in global aviation because it impairs concentration, decision making, and situational awareness.
“The safety of every passenger aboard is therefore placed at measurable risk when crew members are compelled to operate under these conditions,” the statement said.
NAAPE urged the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), fuel suppliers, and other stakeholders to treat the resolution of the Jet A1 supply crisis as an urgent national priority.
The association maintained that safeguarding aviation safety and sustaining airline operations require immediate and coordinated intervention from all relevant authorities.
