Airlines fret over impending Jet A1 scarcity

Airlines under the aegis of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have alerted the public of the impending disruptions to scheduled flight operations.

Spokesman for AON, Obiora Okonkwo stated that this development was being forced on members by the growing scarcity of aviation fuel popular as Jet-A1.

He stated that the scarcity is impacting negatively on the seamless conduct of air transport operations and would lead to flight re-scheduling, and, or, cancellations.

He however stated that the association and its members were working very hard, and in alliance with product marketers, government, and relevant stakeholders, to ensure the availability and proper pricing of aviation fuel in the country.

READ ALSO:  Concern over Abuja airport closure as UK Dep. High Commission visits Minister

While pleading for the understanding of the flying public in the face of this reality, “We also promise to do all that is necessary, and within our powers, to restore normal flight schedules as soon as possible”.

Just last week, Dana Air Dana Air’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Sukhjinder Mann said the airlines were witnessing the scarcity of Jet A1 fuel across the airports in Nigeria, which has in some cases, caused recent flight delays.

 

Some existing Nigerian airlines

Nigerian flying public has been subjected to harrowing experiences of flight delays and cancellations as flights are no longer operated on schedule; a situation that is getting out of hand.

READ ALSO:  How to rescue Nigerian airlines from collapse-Expert

According to him, “Our commitment to offering a convenient and reliable schedule has never been in doubt and has always been centered on setting new standards in customer experience and redefining air travel and this communication is to reassure you that we have the commitment of our fuel partners to service our requirements and that we will continue to offer you competitive fares for your business and leisure travels”.

 He stated that the carrier’s determination to make Dana Air one of Nigeria’s most reliable and customer-friendly airlines remains sacrosanct with a commitment to maintaining our safety standards, operational efficiency, and schedule reliability.

READ ALSO:  AIB releases Chanchangi accident report, three others

 He craved the understanding of travelers, adding they were doing everything possible to keep you flying as per published schedules.

“Nigerian airlines need an average of 1.6 million litres of fuel a day, while international carriers and private jet operators require about 800,000 litres a day. But scarcity has always been created around the product, although it was never this bad”.

Wole Shadare