Flights grounded nationwide: Nigeria’s Jet fuel crisis leaves passengers stranded, Airlines in chaos.

Air travel in Nigeria is facing major disruptions as a worsening shortage of aviation fuel (Jet A1) continues to delay, reschedule, and cancel flights across key airports nationwide.

CBI News notes that Airlines are struggling to maintain schedules amid rising fuel scarcity, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded and forcing many to rethink their travel plans. The crisis has intensified in recent days, with extended waiting times reported in Lagos, Abuja, and other major routes.

The situation is further complicated by a sharp surge in Jet A1 prices—reportedly up over 300%—driven by global supply disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions and constraints in the fuel supply chain.

Adding to the pressure, ground handling companies have issued a seven-day ultimatum to airlines over more than ₦9 billion in unpaid debts. If unresolved, this could lead to a suspension of critical services such as passenger handling, baggage processing, and ramp operations—potentially worsening the crisis.

Airlines have already begun adjusting operations, including reducing flight frequencies and restructuring routes to cope with limited fuel availability. For passengers, this means ongoing uncertainty, last-minute changes, and prolonged delays.

Industry experts warn against placing blame on individual airlines, noting that the aviation fuel crisis is global in nature. Instead, they emphasize the need for long-term solutions, including strengthening local refining capacity, stabilizing supply chains, and improving the overall operating environment for the aviation sector.

As the situation unfolds, the risk of deeper disruptions looms—unless urgent and coordinated action is taken.

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