NCAA Grants Enugu Air AOC to Begin Scheduled Flights
The Enugu Air AOC approval by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has cleared the airline to begin scheduled commercial flight operations in Nigeria.
The certificate was formally presented on March 10, 2026, at the Authority’s corporate headquarters in Abuja. Meanwhile, aviation stakeholders say the development could strengthen domestic connectivity and deepen competition within Nigeria’s growing airline industry.
The ceremony brought together regulators, executives of Enugu Air and officials of the Enugu State Government, which owns the airline. In addition, the approval signals a major milestone for the state’s ambition to expand aviation-driven economic development in the South-East region.
Enugu Air AOC Certification Described as Industry Milestone
Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, described the Enugu Air AOC approval as a milestone for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
According to him, the certification aligns with the Authority’s commitment to expanding airline capacity while maintaining strict regulatory oversight and global safety standards.
He emphasised that the NCAA has continued to improve its certification processes without compromising safety compliance. Therefore, airlines seeking certification must pass rigorous operational and technical evaluations before receiving approval.
Capt. Najomo commended Enugu Air for successfully completing the detailed process. In addition, he praised NCAA technical teams and the airline’s management for their commitment throughout the certification stages.
The process involved extensive documentation review, operational demonstrations and multiple technical evaluations conducted by regulatory inspectors.
Enugu Air Management Hails Certification Achievement
Responding on behalf of the airline, Accountable Manager, Capt. Tolu Ita, described the Enugu Air AOC approval as a major achievement after months of regulatory scrutiny.
He thanked the NCAA for its guidance and oversight throughout the certification process. According to him, the approval represents the realisation of a long-standing aviation vision for the state.
Meanwhile, Commissioner for Transportation in Enugu State, Dr. Obi Ozor, said the airline was conceived to strengthen regional air connectivity and support economic growth.
He noted that improved air transport links would facilitate business travel, tourism and investment opportunities across the South-East region. Therefore, the airline is expected to play a strategic role in improving mobility and trade.
Board Assures NCAA of Operational Compliance
Chairman of the Enugu Air Board, Barrister Richard Agu, assured the regulator that the airline would maintain strict compliance with aviation regulations.
He emphasised that safety, operational efficiency and service reliability would remain the airline’s top priorities as operations begin.
In addition, Agu noted that the management would work closely with regulators to ensure continuous adherence to global aviation standards. This approach, he said, would help the airline sustain its certification and maintain passenger confidence.
Nigeria’s aviation regulations are aligned with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization. These frameworks guide safety oversight, airline certification and operational compliance across global aviation markets.
Operations to Commence From Enugu Hub
Following the Enugu Air AOC approval, the airline will operate from Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, which will serve as its operational hub.
The airline currently operates a fleet of six aircraft, including regional jets such as the Embraer E170 and Embraer E190.
Initial routes are expected to connect Enugu with major Nigerian cities including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Owerri. Meanwhile, the airline plans to expand its fleet to 20 aircraft by late 2026 as operations scale.
Passengers will be offered three service categories including Economy, Economy Plus and Business Class. Therefore, the airline hopes to attract both business travellers and leisure passengers within Nigeria’s domestic aviation market.
NCAA Officials Attend Certificate Presentation
Several senior NCAA officials attended the ceremony marking the Enugu Air AOC presentation. These included Director of Airworthiness Standards, Engr. Balang Godwin, Director of Licensing and Training Standards, Capt. Donald Spiff, Director of Air Transport Regulation, Mrs. Babaoye-Iriobe Olayinka, and Director of Finance and Accounts, Mr. Olufemi Odukoya.
Meanwhile, industry observers believe the airline’s entry could boost competition and strengthen connectivity within Nigeria’s domestic aviation network.
