Nigeria’s aviation industry is facing a serious crisis, with stakeholders warning that the entire system could break down if urgent action is not taken.
The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI) raised the alarm in a letter sent to the Federal Government, calling for a coordinated rescue plan across the sector.
The group described the situation as a “system-wide emergency” affecting airlines, airports, and service providers at the same time.
According to the letter, rising jet fuel costs, heavy debts, and weak cash flow have combined to put airlines under pressure, thereby creating risks for the whole aviation value chain.
The group said domestic jet fuel prices have risen far above global levels. It noted that while international benchmark prices suggest about ₦1,559 per litre, local depot prices have climbed to between ₦3,000 and ₦3,300 per litre.
It warned that this sharp difference is not only due to global trends but also local pricing issues that must be addressed quickly.
The think tank stressed that focusing on fuel alone will not solve the problem. It said reforms must cover pricing, debt, and daily operations together.
It also warned of a chain reaction already affecting the industry. Airports are reporting lower income, service providers are struggling, and ground handlers are threatening to stop work over debts estimated at about ₦9bn.
The group insisted that airlines must be protected first, as they are the centre of the system. It said if airlines shut down, other parts of the sector will also collapse.
As part of its proposals, the group called for a temporary system to stabilise fuel prices. It explained that this would not be a subsidy but a short-term measure to correct the price gap.
It also asked the government to provide emergency funding to airlines. The funds, it said, should be tied to key needs such as safety, staff salaries, and continuous operations.
At the same time, airlines benefiting from such support must present clear plans to manage and repay their debts.
The group also suggested partial relief for service providers, including a possible 30 per cent cut in verified debts. It added that workers’ wages and benefits must be protected during any adjustment.
To ensure transparency, the think tank proposed an independent system to review all financial claims and monitor how funds are used.
It stressed that no operator receiving support should lower safety or maintenance standards.
Besides this immediate crisis, the group called for long-term reforms. It urged the government to review the current system of multiple charges imposed by agencies such as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
It said reducing these charges would help airlines survive and improve service quality.
The group also proposed a national framework to manage fuel price changes and prevent future shocks.
As part of its long-term plan, it introduced a “Fly Nigeria, Fly” initiative aimed at boosting local airlines through route support, airport upgrades, and investment in cargo services.
It also called for stronger local capacity in aircraft maintenance and training.
The group warned that time is running out and that delay could worsen the situation.
It urged the Federal Government to act quickly, combining short-term relief with long-term reforms to stabilise the sector.
These recommendations could shape future policy decisions as authorities consider steps to prevent a deeper crisis in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
For More De9tails, Visit PrimeTimes