The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has announced the temporary suspension of its planned nationwide shutdown of flight operations, following an 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, convened amid mounting tensions over the soaring cost of aviation fuel, popularly known as Jet A1.
The shutdown, initially scheduled to commence on Monday, April 20, 2026, was intended as a protest against what operators described as an “astronomical and arbitrary increase” in fuel prices, which has placed severe strain on airline operations across the country.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, AON stated that its decision to suspend the action was “concessionary but conditional,” hinging on ongoing engagement with the Federal Government.
The association cited a formal appeal from the Minister as a key factor influencing its stance, noting that the government had acknowledged the gravity of the crisis and pledged to take immediate steps to address the issues.
According to the communiqué, the Minister commended the resilience and professionalism of Nigerian airlines, recognising their efforts in sustaining air transport services despite the challenging operating environment.
He also assured operators that their concerns had received the full attention of the government and would be urgently addressed.
AON, in response, agreed to shelve the shutdown temporarily to allow room for dialogue. A crucial meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, 2026, where stakeholders are expected to deliberate on the crisis and explore sustainable solutions.
“The planned shutdown action is hereby called off, albeit temporarily, pending the outcome of the meeting called by the Honourable Minister,” the communiqué stated. “This is to allow for dialogue with a view to possibly finding a lasting and mutually beneficial resolution.”
However, the association outlined specific conditions accompanying its decision. It called on the Minister to direct relevant government agencies and service providers within the aviation sector to continue offering services to airlines without disruption.
AON also urged these entities to refrain from what it described as undue harassment and the practice of demanding upfront payments for services rendered.
Industry observers note that the Jet A1 fuel crisis has become one of the most pressing challenges in Nigeria’s aviation sector, with fuel costs accounting for a significant portion of airlines’ operating expenses.
The volatility in pricing has forced several carriers to review fares, reduce flight frequencies, and in some cases, contemplate suspension of operations.
AON emphasised its respect for the Federal Government’s intervention and expressed optimism that the upcoming meeting would yield concrete outcomes.
The association also signalled its willingness to remain patient while awaiting the results of the engagement, which will ultimately determine its next course of action.
The development offers temporary relief to passengers and businesses that rely heavily on domestic air travel, averting what could have been a major disruption across Nigeria’s aviation network.
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