Fuel cost: Rano Air to suspend some flight operations

Nigeria’s aviation sector is facing fresh pressure as Rano Air announced the temporary suspension of some of its flight routes following a sharp increase in the cost of Jet A1 aviation fuel.

The airline disclosed in a public announcement that aviation fuel prices have risen by more than 300 per cent, making it increasingly difficult to sustain operations on certain routes.

The development highlights the growing challenges confronting domestic airlines, many of which have continued to battle high operational costs, foreign exchange instability and rising maintenance expenses.

According to Rano Air, the surge in fuel prices has significantly affected the aviation industry and placed enormous strain on its operations, forcing the company to review the viability of some routes.

The airline said the decision to suspend selected operations was taken after careful consideration in order to maintain safe, reliable and sustainable services.

Industry analysts say fuel accounts for a major portion of airline operating costs in Nigeria, with repeated increases in Jet A1 prices contributing to higher ticket fares, reduced flight frequencies and route cancellations across the sector.

Passengers affected by the suspension have been advised to contact the airline for assistance regarding refunds, rescheduling or rerouting arrangements.

Rano Air stated that its customer service team had been mobilised to support passengers impacted by the disruption.

The airline, however, assured customers that the suspended routes would resume once market conditions improve and operations become commercially viable again.

The latest development adds to concerns over the sustainability of domestic airline operations in Nigeria amid persistent economic pressures and fluctuating energy costs.