African airlines taxed by fuel cost, supply | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

African airlines are grappling with higher jet-fuel costs and tighter supply as the Iran conflict disrupts global energy flows, according to AFRAA. The association notes Africa already paid roughly 17% more for jet fuel than the global average before the Iran crisis, with new pressures squeezing margins across carriers reliant on imported refined fuel. Fuel generally accounts for 30% to 40% of operating costs, making price shifts immediately impactful. Disruptions affect hubs like Nairobi and Addis Ababa, prompting network adjustments, reduced frequencies, and route reviews as Africa seeks domestic refining capacity and diversified supply, including Dangote’s refinery projects in Nigeria to ease dependence.