Hajj 2026: Nigeria Hajj Flights at Risk as Fuel Costs Triple

Maisah

May 1, 2026

Jet fuel surge adds ₦126 million per flight, airlines warn operations may not continue.

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Key Takeaways

Jet A1 fuel prices in Nigeria rose from ₦1,000 to over ₦2,800 per litre
Airlines say current costs make Nigeria–Saudi Hajj flights unprofitable
NAHCON set May 3, 2026 for first airlift from Abeokuta’s Gateway Airport

Jet fuel costs in Nigeria have risen sharply, putting the 2026 Hajj airlift schedule under strain. Prices for Jet A1 fuel moved from approximately ₦1,000 per litre to over ₦2,800 per litre within weeks. This change adds between ₦105 million and ₦126 million to the cost of each flight on the Nigeria–Saudi route.

Airlines Signal Operations May Stop

Contracted airlines told NAHCON during a meeting that they cannot promise flights under present fuel pricing. They described the current situation as unprofitable and unsustainable for Hajj airlift services.

May 3 Airlift Date Faces Pressure

NAHCON selected May 3, 2026 as the start date for pilgrim flights from Gateway International Airport in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Other nations began moving Hajj travelers in mid-April, leaving little time to address the fuel cost gap.

Fares Set Despite Fuel Uncertainty

NAHCON set 2026 Hajj fares between ₦7.6 million and ₦8.2 million, based on departure zone. These prices were finalized even as fuel costs continue to rise.

Calls for Government Support

The Concerned Aviation Stakeholders coalition asked federal and state governments to step in quickly. They want help covering the difference between earlier fuel cost estimates and today’s market prices.

Alternative Carrier Option

Saudi airline Flynas said it is ready to join the airlift effort. This could offer a path forward if Nigerian carriers pull out of Hajj operations.

Global Fuel Trend Context

IATA figures show global jet fuel prices reached about US$209 per barrel in early April 2026, up from roughly US$88 per barrel in January 2026.

Nigeria’s Hajj flights may not start on time. Jet fuel costs jumped three times higher. Airlines say they cannot afford to fly at these prices. Help from government or new airline deals could keep the May 3 schedule.

Maisah

Maisah is a Muslimah and journalist for The Islamic Information based in Indonesia. Studying Law at Maritime University of Raja Ali Haji. She believes in the power of words and hopes that her articles will positively impact all of her readers.