The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has viewed with grave concern the ongoing Jet A1 aviation fuel supply crisis and its far-reaching consequences for its members, airline operators, the flying public, and the Nigerian economy at large.

Statement by its National President,Capt.Bunmi Gindeh indicated that as the body mandated to protect the welfare and professional interests of pilots and engineers in Nigeria, NAAPE considers its  duty to formally bring these concerns to the attention of all relevant authorities and stakeholders.

It made known that persistent disruptions to flight schedules occasioned by the Jet A1 supply shortfall have resulted in significant extensions of crew duty time beyond planned parameters.

For its members, pilots and engineers alike, this translates directly into elevated fatigue levels, a condition that is universally recognised in aviation as a critical safety hazard.

“Fatigue impairs cognitive function, slows reaction time, and, most dangerously, erodes situational awareness, a pilot or engineer’s most essential tool in managing the complexities of flight operations. The safety of every passenger aboard is therefore placed at measurable risk when crew members are compelled to operate under these conditions.”

On economic impact on operators,beyond the immediate safety concerns, the fuel crisis is inflicting significant financial strain on airline operators. Grounded or delayed aircraft generate no revenue, yet fixed operational costs persist. This economic pressure invariably filters down to its members in the form of delayed salary payments, wage reductions, and general deterioration of welfare conditions. “A workforce operating under financial stress is a workforce distracted, and distraction in an aviation environment is, once again, a precursor to compromised safety.”

According to Capt.Gindeh,NAAPE is alarmed by early indicators that some operators are already restructuring their operations in response to this crisis.

NAAPE noted the recent announcement by Rano Air of a reduction in operational routes is a clear signal of the economic damage being wrought. Should the situation remain unaddressed, “we anticipate further route suspensions, potential cessation of operations by some carriers, and significant job losses across the aviation sector.”

“ Given that aviation is a critical driver of economic activity, trade, tourism, and connectivity in Nigeria, the downstream consequences for the national economy would be severe and far-reaching.”

It explained that it is the solemn mandate of NAAPE to advocate for the safety and welfare of its members and, by extension, the flying public.

“We hereby call on the Federal Government, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), fuel suppliers, and all relevant stakeholders to treat the resolution of this Jet A1 supply crisis as a matter of urgent national priority.”

“Aviation safety is non-negotiable. The lives of Nigerians in the air depend on decisive and immediate action”.