The adjustment, announced by the airline’s management on Saturday, affects one of its key international routes and reflects the growing strain on airline operations linked to fuel availability challenges both within Nigeria and globally.
According to the airline, the revised schedule will remain in effect until July 1, 2026, when normal operations are expected to resume—subject to improvements in fuel supply. The decision, it said, is aimed at maintaining operational stability while ensuring continuity of service despite ongoing disruptions.
In a statement, Air Peace noted that the supply challenges are not isolated but part of a broader issue impacting the aviation sector worldwide. The airline explained that scaling back frequency was a necessary step to manage the operational impact of the shortages without completely suspending the route.
The development comes against the backdrop of a deepening Jet A1 crisis in Nigeria, driven by sharp price increases and supply disruptions in recent months. Aviation fuel prices have surged dramatically—from about ₦900 per litre in late February to over ₦3,000 by April—placing significant financial pressure on airlines.
Industry operators, including the Airline Operators of Nigeria, have described the spike as unsustainable, previously warning of a potential nationwide shutdown of operations. The group also characterized the pricing trend as “artificial” and not fully aligned with global crude oil movements.
In response to the mounting pressure, the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, intervened to avert a shutdown, urging continued dialogue while introducing relief measures. Among these is a 30 percent reduction in statutory aviation fees, covering charges such as parking, navigation, and other regulatory costs.
Further compounding the situation are global supply factors. Tensions in the Middle East—particularly around the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz—have disrupted energy supply chains, contributing to rising global fuel benchmarks. This has had a direct impact on aviation fuel pricing, even in markets like Nigeria where much of the supply is sourced locally.
The Dangote Refinery remains a primary supplier of jet fuel within the country. However, global pricing indices such as Platts have continued to climb, translating into higher landing costs and operational expenses for airlines.
Analysts note that the combined effect of global supply shocks and domestic pricing dynamics is keeping aviation fuel costs elevated, with ripple effects on ticket prices, route frequency, and overall flight stability.
For now, Air Peace’s reduced Abuja–London schedule underscores the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s aviation sector, as operators navigate a complex mix of local constraints and international market pressures.