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Nigeria’s domestic aviation network has welcomed a new player as Enugu Air commences operations, adding momentum to sub-national air connectivity. The airline, owned by the Enugu State Government, took off with its maiden flight from Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, operated by XEJET under an interim arrangement. It will initially fly to major Nigerian cities with future plans for regional and international routes.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), led federal officials to inaugurate the flight, describing the launch as a bold step in state-driven development. He praised Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for championing infrastructure-led growth and leveraging aviation to unlock regional potential, according to a statement by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser, Media.
“Governor Mbah has done what visionary leaders do—create opportunities through strategic investment,” the Minister said during the flag-off ceremony. “Enugu Air is a symbol of what’s possible when states invest with purpose.”
Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, confirmed that XEJET has been cleared to operate scheduled services for Enugu Air. He explained that the EMB 170 aircraft has been added to XEJET’s Operations Specifications (OpsSpecs), following NCAA’s five-phase certification process.
Najomo in a statement signed by Director Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, noted that the NCAA supports this partnership model pending the completion of Enugu Air’s independent Air Operator Certificate (AOC). He said the agency remains committed to easing regulatory pathways for qualified indigenous carriers to grow.
Ticket bookings are currently handled through XEJET’s website, with links redirected from the Enugu Air official portal. This interim arrangement enables uninterrupted service while full certification is ongoing.
Governor Peter Mbah, in his remarks, thanked the Federal Ministry of Aviation and its agencies for supporting the vision. He described the carrier as more than an airline—it is part of Enugu’s broader economic transformation strategy.
“Enugu Air will link us to commerce, culture, and capital,” Governor Mbah said. “It is our gateway to regional competitiveness and global engagement.”
He further revealed that plans are underway to expand operations beyond domestic routes. Targeted destinations include key cities in West and Central Africa and, later, Europe and the Middle East. According to Mbah, the airline will scale gradually based on demand and fleet capacity.
The partnership with XEJET, led by Mr. Emmanuel Iza, provides operational experience and regulatory readiness. XEJET brings expertise in delivering reliable flight services and currently manages the day-to-day operations for Enugu Air.
As the freshly liveried aircraft taxied out, it received a symbolic water salute—a tradition that marks the beginning of service. Guests also toured the plane and attended a stakeholder roundtable focused on aviation development.
The event drew top figures from Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem, including:Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Umar; Directors from NSIB, NiMet, and other federal aviation agencies. Also in attendance were members of the Enugu State Executive Council, traditional leaders, diplomatic envoys, business investors, travel agencies, and aviation unions.
Industry experts have praised the initiative for its structure, timing, and potential impact. One analyst called it “a model for regional airline development.” Others noted that Enugu Air commences operations at a time when demand for domestic connectivity is growing.
For the NCAA, this move represents progress toward its reform goals. Captain Najomo emphasized that enabling state-backed ventures contributes to sectoral diversification. He reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to safety, fairness, and growth.
The Federal Government, through Minister Keyamo, also expressed readiness to support such public-private models that align with its national aviation masterplan. According to him, well-managed state carriers could help decongest major hubs and improve point-to-point travel.
As the maiden flight concluded, optimism filled the air. Passengers spoke of convenience and regional pride. Officials reflected on what it means for the South East’s access to markets and opportunities.
Enugu now joins Akwa Ibom and Cross River in the growing league of states investing in airline business. This signals a broader trend in Nigeria where local governments are taking ownership of their transport infrastructure strategies.
With steady backing from regulatory and political institutions, Enugu Air is poised to redefine regional access and service quality in Nigeria’s skies. The journey has only just begun, but the vision is already airborne.
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