There are signs that airfares could rise in the coming weeks as the cost of aviation fuel, known as Jet A1, continues to increase, adding pressure on airline operations and pointing to higher ticket prices for passengers.

The surge in Jet A1 prices is largely driven by the Middle East crisis, which has disrupted crude oil production and supply chains across countries, further raising operating costs for domestic carriers.

Findings shows a sharp surge in operating costs, largely driven by the spike in aviation fuel, which has emerged as the primary cost pressure in recent weeks.

It is reported that aviation fuel previously sold between N900 and N995 before the onset of the Middle East crisis—has risen steeply to between N2,500 and N2,700, depending on the airport of delivery, significantly increasing the cost burden for operators.

Operators said they were closely monitoring the situation, warning that an increase in airfares was imminent, with strong indications that ticket prices could double if the current trend continues.

Aviation fuel remains the largest cost component for airlines, accounting for about 30 to 35 per cent of total operational expenses—a figure industry players say is rising rapidly under current market conditions.

Airline sources said the price of aviation fuel has remained highly volatile since February 28, 2026, when the Iran conflict began, with rates changing about five times within a short period—further complicating planning and pricing decisions for operators, according to The PUNCH.

The spokesperson for United Nigeria Airlines, Chibuike Uloka, has called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to urgently engage domestic airline operators on the sustainability of current ticket pricing amid rising operational costs.

The FCCPC had recently accused airlines of price fixing, focusing on five unnamed carriers—an allegation the operators have strongly denied.

Uloka added that despite aviation fuel prices climbing above N2,000 per litre, many airlines have continued to keep fares around N195,000, raising concerns about how long such pricing can be sustained under current economic conditions.

He cautioned that conditions could deteriorate further if fuel prices reach N3,000 per litre, adding that such pressure may force some airlines out of operation, potentially reducing capacity and driving fares even higher.

He said, “Honestly, this is a very good time for FCCPC to come out and ask operators how they have been able to sustain flight tickets at N195,000 despite the increase in aviation fuel crossing N2000 and above. They should please ask how operators have kept on with operations? These are hard times. But most definitely, the current prices can’t be sustained for long periods.

“If this continues the way it is, because the way we are now, the price is also getting to N3000 per litre, and if it eventually gets to N3000, not all operators will be able to fly. And the ones that will be able to fly will not be Father Christmas. What we are asking now is not even profit, but at least to be able to operate optimally. Aviation has become a daily necessity because people must be able to move from one place to another. But FCCPC must be able to come out now and ask operators how we are faring.”

Oil prices were broadly stable on Monday as investors weighed rising threats from the US and Iran targeting energy infrastructure.

Brent crude edged lower towards $111 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate fell to about $98 after briefly retesting the $100 level.

Brent, the global benchmark, has surged more than 50 per cent since the conflict began and is now in its fourth week, with no clear signs of easing tensions