The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, NAAPE, has raised serious concerns over the ongoing Jet A1 aviation fuel crisis in Nigeria, warning that the situation could endanger flight safety and trigger massive job losses across the aviation industry if urgent action is not taken.
NAAPE explained that the persistent shortage of aviation fuel has continued to disrupt flight operations nationwide, forcing pilots and aircraft engineers to work beyond their normal schedules. According to the association, the increasing workload and extended duty hours are causing fatigue among aviation workers, creating serious safety concerns for both crew members and passengers.
In a statement issued by the National President of NAAPE, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, the association called on the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, and fuel suppliers to urgently address the worsening fuel supply challenges.
The association noted that fatigue remains one of the most dangerous risks in aviation globally because it affects concentration, reaction time, and decision making during flight operations and aircraft maintenance activities.
NAAPE further stated that the fuel crisis is placing heavy financial pressure on airline operators as delayed and grounded flights continue to reduce revenue while operational costs remain high. According to the body, the economic difficulties may eventually affect workers through delayed salaries, reduced wages, and worsening welfare conditions.
The group also expressed concern over signs that some airlines are already adjusting operations due to the crisis. It cited the recent decision by Rano Air to reduce some operational routes as evidence of the growing impact on the aviation sector.
NAAPE warned that if the situation continues, more airlines may suspend routes, reduce operations, or shut down completely, leading to widespread unemployment and negative effects on Nigeria’s economy, tourism, trade, and transportation sector.
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