NAAPE Warns Of Rising Safety Risks Amid Persistent Jet A1 Shortage

The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has raised concerns over the continued shortage of Jet A1 aviation fuel, warning that the crisis is beginning to threaten safety and operational stability within Nigeria’s aviation industry.

In a statement issued on Saturday, NAAPE President, Bunmi Gindeh, said the persistent disruption in aviation fuel supply was causing prolonged flight delays, extended crew duty hours, route adjustments and increasing financial pressure on domestic airlines already grappling with high operating costs.

According to Gindeh, the growing instability in Jet A1 availability could weaken critical safety margins in the aviation sector if urgent action is not taken.

He noted that extended duty periods caused by delayed and disrupted flight schedules were increasing fatigue among flight crew members, with possible implications for operational safety.

“Fatigue impairs cognitive function, slows reaction time and erodes situational awareness,” he said.

NAAPE called on the Federal Government, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and fuel suppliers to urgently address the situation, describing the fuel shortage as a national priority.

The association observed that the aviation industry was already struggling with foreign exchange volatility, high maintenance costs, airport infrastructure challenges and fluctuating fuel prices, all of which have significantly affected airline operations in recent years.

It added that aviation fuel remains one of the highest cost components for airlines, with operators facing severe price fluctuations driven by forex pressures, supply chain bottlenecks and reliance on imported petroleum products.

NAAPE further stated that while passengers experience the immediate effects of delays and cancellations, the operational uncertainty is also putting pressure on crew scheduling, aircraft turnaround operations and maintenance planning.

The union warned that the economic impact of the Jet A1 shortage could also affect workforce welfare and the long-term sustainability of some domestic carriers.

It cited recent route reductions by Rano Air as an indication of the mounting pressure facing operators in the sector.