Domestic airline operator Rano Air has reduced its flight operations as Nigeria’s aviation industry struggles under soaring jet fuel prices and falling passenger demand, worsening fears that more carriers could suspend services.
The airline confirmed the reduction in operations amid growing pressure on operators already battling rising costs.
The development comes weeks after the Airline Operators of Nigeria warned that carriers might shut down nationwide if the Federal Government failed to address the sharp increase in the price of Jet A1 fuel.
According to the operators, aviation fuel prices rose from about ₦900 per litre in February to nearly ₦3,300 by mid-April, a jump they described as “astronomical” and unsustainable.
Aviation analyst Wole Shadare had earlier warned that the industry was heading toward a major crisis.
Speaking in an interview with Nigeria Info FM, Shadare said, “It is a crisis.
"The price went up from ₦900 per litre to ₦3,300.
"It is not sustainable for the aviation industry.”
He added, “Two airlines are going to go out of business before the end of the year.
"We have seen one already that has stopped operation.”
Industry sources say Rano Air’s move reflects wider problems facing local carriers, many of which are now cutting frequencies and reviewing routes to survive.
Airlines have also blamed low passenger traffic caused by expensive airfares and economic hardship.
In a recent letter to operators, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo urged airlines not to suspend operations despite the crisis.
“The sudden hike in Jet A1 fuel” has created serious operational challenges, Keyamo acknowledged.
Globally, airlines are also reacting to rising fuel costs.
Lufthansa has announced thousands of flight cuts, while Canada’s WestJet reduced capacity because of surging jet fuel prices.
Despite government appeals, operators insist the situation remains critical.
“If you use all your revenue to buy fuel, your books will be in red,” Shadare warned during the Nigeria Info interview.
