Ibom Air has warned that it may be forced to reduce flight capacity as soaring aviation fuel prices continue to squeeze domestic airline operations across Nigeria.
The airline disclosed that the cost of fueling its aircraft has more than tripled in recent weeks, rising from an average of N2.1 million per flight in January to about N7.6 million as of April 26—a spike of over 350 percent within just seven weeks.
Despite operating some of the most fuel-efficient aircraft in the domestic market, Ibom Air said the sharp increase has left airlines struggling to cope, particularly as ticket prices have not risen proportionately due to competitive pressures and a commitment to keeping air travel accessible.
The airline also questioned why aviation fuel prices in Nigeria remain significantly higher than global averages, noting that the majority of supply is sourced locally from the Dangote Refinery.
According to the airline, operators initially absorbed the rising costs in anticipation of a short-term disruption, but the crisis has persisted for nearly two months with no signs of easing.
Ibom Air warned that if the situation continues, airlines may be forced to reduce flight capacity or take other measures to stay afloat, adding that prolonged cost pressures could threaten the viability of domestic aviation services.
The carrier called on fuel marketers to urgently review pricing mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of airline operations in Nigeria.
