The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers has raised concerns over the growing aviation fuel shortage in Nigeria, warning that the crisis could threaten flight safety and disrupt airline operations across the country.
The association said the continued shortage of Jet A1 fuel is already affecting flight schedules, increasing operational pressure on airlines, and creating difficult working conditions for pilots and aviation workers.
In a statement released on Sunday, NAAPE President Bunmi Gindeh described the situation as a serious national issue that requires immediate intervention from aviation and petroleum regulators.
Flight delays and safety concerns increase
According to the association, the aviation fuel shortage in Nigeria has led to repeated flight delays, route adjustments, and longer duty hours for flight crews.
Gindeh warned that extended working hours could increase fatigue among pilots and engineers, creating safety risks within the aviation sector.
“The persistent disruptions to flight schedules caused by the Jet A1 shortage have resulted in significant extensions of crew duty time,” he said.
He explained that fatigue remains one of the biggest safety concerns in global aviation because it affects concentration, reaction time, and situational awareness during flight operations.
Airlines face growing financial pressure
The union also said the crisis is worsening the financial challenges already facing domestic airlines in Nigeria.
Airlines continue to battle rising operational costs, high fuel prices, and economic pressure that have affected profitability in recent months.
According to Gindeh, grounded aircraft generate no revenue while airlines still struggle to cover salaries, maintenance, and other fixed expenses.
The association warned that the prolonged fuel shortage may force some airlines to reduce operations, suspend routes, or completely shut down services.
NAAPE calls for urgent government action
NAAPE urged the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, fuel suppliers, and petroleum regulators to urgently resolve the aviation fuel crisis.
The association stressed that quick intervention is necessary to protect jobs, maintain air connectivity, and preserve safety standards within the industry.
Gindeh also pointed to recent route reductions by some domestic airlines as early signs of the growing pressure on operators.
Aviation fuel shortage threatens industry stability
Industry experts say the aviation fuel shortage in Nigeria could have wider economic consequences if left unresolved.
Nigeria’s aviation sector plays a major role in transportation, business activities, tourism, and regional connectivity. Any prolonged disruption may affect passengers, businesses, and thousands of workers who depend on the industry.
Analysts believe stable Jet A1 supply and better energy policies will be necessary to prevent further operational challenges for airlines.
The warning by pilots and engineers highlights the increasing pressure facing Nigeria’s aviation industry as fuel shortages continue to disrupt operations. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further flight delays, safety risks, and financial losses within the sector.
