The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has issued a stark warning that the persistent shortage of aviation fuel (Jet A1) could force more airlines to suspend routes, cut operations, or shut down entirely—triggering significant job losses across the sector.
In a statement issued on Sunday, NAAPE President Bunmi Gindeh described the worsening fuel crisis as a “national concern” requiring urgent intervention from the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and all relevant stakeholders.
The warning comes as domestic carriers already battle rising operating costs and skyrocketing fuel prices that continue to reshape the economics of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“Urgent National Priority”
Gindeh stated that the prolonged supply disruptions have triggered operational challenges including flight delays, route adjustments, and extended crew duty hours—factors that dangerously affect safety margins.
“We hereby call on the Federal Government, the NCAA, the NMDPRA, fuel suppliers, and all relevant stakeholders to treat the resolution of this Jet A1 supply crisis as a matter of urgent national priority,” Gindeh said.
He warned that recurring disruptions to flight schedules caused by fuel shortages are increasing fatigue among pilots and technical personnel, a situation with direct implications for aviation safety.
“The persistent disruptions to flight schedules occasioned by the Jet A1 supply shortfall have resulted in significant extensions of crew duty time beyond planned parameters. Fatigue impairs cognitive function, slows reaction time, and, most dangerously, erodes situational awareness,” he added.
Job Losses, Route Suspensions Loom
NAAPE further cautioned that if the fuel crisis persists, the consequences could be devastating for employment and national connectivity.
“Should the situation remain unaddressed, we anticipate further route suspensions, potential cessation of operations by some carriers, and significant job losses across the aviation sector,” Gindeh warned.
He pointed to recent operational adjustments by some domestic airlines—including route reductions announced by Rano Air—as early indicators of the mounting pressure facing operators.
“Grounded or delayed aircraft generate no revenue, yet fixed operational costs persist,” Gindeh said, adding that the strain often filters down to workers through delayed salaries, worsening welfare conditions, and increased workplace stress.
Economic Pressures Deepen
The development comes at a period when domestic carriers are already struggling to remain financially stable amid rising operational costs. Within the global aviation industry, fatigue management remains one of the most critical safety concerns, with regulators imposing strict limits on crew duty periods to reduce the risk of human error during flight operations.
NAAPE reiterated its call for all stakeholders to act swiftly, warning that doing nothing risks not only the livelihoods of thousands of aviation workers but also the safety of flying passengers nationwide.
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