Enugu Air Cleared for Takeoff as NCAA Grants Official Certification
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has formally issued an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Enugu Air, authorizing the state-owned airline to commence scheduled commercial flight operations within Nigeria. The certification was presented on Tuesday, March 10, at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja by the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo.
Rigorous Regulatory Process Ensures Safety Compliance
During the presentation ceremony, Mr. Najomo emphasized that the certification followed a comprehensive regulatory procedure involving detailed operational inspections and technical assessments. He stated that the NCAA has consistently strengthened its certification protocols to guarantee that all airlines meet stringent safety and operational standards before initiating services.
"We commend Enugu Air’s management and our technical team for successfully completing the certification process," Najomo remarked, according to BusinessDay reports. An Air Operator Certificate is a critical authorization that permits an airline to conduct commercial air transport operations only after fulfilling rigorous regulatory requirements covering safety, operational capability, and technical compliance.
Airline Management Expresses Readiness for Launch
Responding on behalf of Enugu Air, the accountable manager, Tolu Ita, described the certification as a pivotal milestone toward launching the carrier’s commercial operations. Ita noted, as reported by Punch, that the airline collaborated closely with the regulator throughout the certification process and is committed to operating in full compliance with all aviation safety standards.
The development positions Enugu Air to join the expanding roster of state-owned carriers operating domestic services in Nigeria, providing travelers with additional options and potentially fostering fare competition in the aviation market.
Boosting Regional Connectivity from Enugu Hub
Enugu Air, which is owned by the Enugu State Government, is expected to operate primarily from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. Officials have indicated that the airline plans to connect Enugu with major domestic destinations including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Owerri.
Enugu State Commissioner for Transportation, Obi Ozor, highlighted that the airline was established to enhance air connectivity within the South-east region and support economic activities. "We are ready to improve air links that can facilitate business travel while boosting tourism and investment opportunities," Ozor stated.
Fleet Expansion and Strategic Growth Plans
Officials disclosed that Enugu Air currently maintains a fleet of six aircraft, comprising Embraer E170 and E190 regional jets. The airline intends to expand its fleet to approximately 20 aircraft by the end of 2026 as it scales operations within Nigeria’s domestic aviation market.
Enugu Air initiated services in 2025 with two E170s operated under the AOC of another Nigerian carrier, XE Jet, and has subsequently added an E190. In February 2026, the airline received a new E195 aircraft. In a statement posted on LinkedIn, Enugu Air declared that receiving its AOC marked a major milestone as it begins independent operations.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has indicated that the airline is planning rapid expansion throughout 2026, aiming to strengthen domestic connectivity across Nigeria. The Chairman of the Enugu Air Board, Richard Agu, assured the regulator that the airline would maintain full compliance with aviation regulations as operations commence.
This approval follows recent news that Ibom Air, the Akwa Ibom State–owned airline, is set to commence international flight operations in April 2026, representing a significant boost to Nigeria’s aviation sector.
