Nigerian Fuel Shortage Leads to Airlines Warning of Disruption

Nigerian airlines warn of imminent flight disruptions caused by a shortage of aviation fuel in the country.

Numerous flights could be canceled or delayed due to the latest fuel shortage in Nigeria. Let's take an in-depth look at the below.

Another shortage of aviation fuel

Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) which includes Air Peace and Azman Air, stated in a recent statement, that domestic carriers would have to reschedule their operations due to a shortage of Jet-A1 Fuel. This could lead to cancellations and delays.

According to the AON:

"We want to inform the public about impending disruptions to scheduled flight operations due the scarcity aviation fuel, also known as Jet-A1, that has reared its ugly head in the last few days. We will do our best to resolve the situation and ensure safe flight operations. However, we ask for your understanding.

Kingsley Nwokeoma (President of the Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria) stated that domestic airlines could be forced to suspend operations because of scarcity.

Peak holiday travel period

The crisis is worsening for Nigerian travelers and airlines. It also happens during busy travel seasons like Christmas and New Year. The airlines have increased fares this year, and any disruptions could be passed onto the customer through their ticket price.

The AON further mentioned: "We also appeal to the concerned authorities, including marketers and product importers, to address this situation as soon as possible to alleviate the travel public's stress."

Some Simple Flying readers might recall reading some of our earlier stories on Nigeria's aviation fuel issues. AON Airlines almost had to suspend operations after suffering major fuel shortages in May/July of this year. They then decided to continue negotiations with the government and canceled their flight suspension plans.

Why is this happening?

While all airlines are struggling with rising fuel costs, Nigeria's ongoing foreign currency crisis has made it worse. Nigeria, an oil-rich nation, is currently the sixth-largest oil exporter in the world. It cannot produce Jet-A1 fuel in its own country and must buy it from overseas, often in US dollars.

Nigeria's government eventually agreed to subsidize fuel for airlines at a rate of N480 per Liter for three months. This agreement has now expired. In November, fuel prices at Lagos Airport were N780, which is around 400% more than at the start of the year. Prices outside Lagos have exceeded N800 in the past month.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has created additional problems in importing fuel. This is especially true since Russia was once a major supplier before being subject to severe economic sanctions. With allegations of fuel theft, extortionate pricing, and other corruption, it is also possible that corruption played a part.

 

Source: simplyflying.com