The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has raised an alarm over the persistent shortage of aviation fuel, warning that the crisis is increasingly threatening flight safety, airline operations, and the welfare of aviation workers across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday by NAAPE President, Bunmi Gindeh, described the worsening scarcity of Jet A1 fuel as a national emergency requiring immediate intervention from aviation and petroleum regulatory authorities.
According to the association, the prolonged disruption in fuel supply has created significant operational difficulties for airlines, leading to flight delays, route adjustments, and extended crew duty hours that could compromise safety standards in the aviation sector.
The warning comes at a time when domestic airlines are grappling with rising operational costs and soaring fuel prices, which continue to put severe pressure on the sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Gindeh called on the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, fuel suppliers, and other stakeholders to urgently resolve the Jet A1 supply crisis.
He stressed that recurring flight disruptions caused by fuel shortages are increasing fatigue among pilots and technical personnel, warning that fatigue can impair cognitive performance, reduce reaction time, and weaken situational awareness during flight operations.
The union noted that fatigue management remains a critical issue in global aviation, with strict regulations in place worldwide to limit crew duty periods and reduce the risk of human error.
NAAPE also expressed concern over the economic implications of the crisis, stating that grounded or delayed aircraft generate no revenue while airlines continue to bear fixed operational costs.
According to the association, the financial strain often translates into delayed salaries, worsening welfare conditions, and heightened stress for aviation workers.
The association further warned that continued fuel shortages could force more airlines to reduce operations, suspend routes, or shut down entirely, resulting in significant job losses and reduced national connectivity.
Gindeh cited recent operational adjustments by Rano Air, including route reductions, as early signs of the mounting pressure confronting domestic carriers.
