XEjet has emerged winner of the Best Inflight Service Award at the just concluded Nigeria International Airshow in Abuja. The recognition further strengthens the airline’s reputation for delivering high-quality inflight hospitality and reinforces the importance of Inflight Service as a defining feature of modern air travel. The honour also reflects growing industry appreciation for airlines capable of meeting rising passenger expectations with professionalism and consistent care throughout the journey.
The award was presented to XEjet by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, during the event. The gesture underscored the significance of exceptional Inflight Service within the domestic aviation sector and highlighted the efforts of carriers working to elevate the passenger experience. The ceremony gathered aviation stakeholders, airline executives, and regulatory leaders, all of whom noted that Inflight Service remains a critical element of customer satisfaction in Nigeria’s evolving air transport landscape.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Airshow in Abuja, Chief Executive Officer of XEjet, Emmanuel Iza, said the recognition stands as a powerful endorsement of the airline’s work. He explained that the award reflects a deep commitment to passenger welfare and an effort to address long-existing gaps in local aviation. He stressed that Inflight Service remains central to the passenger journey, therefore airline operators must continue improving both comfort and engagement.
“This award for Best Inflight Service is a true honour for us at XEjet,” said Iza. “It reflects our commitment to filling a critical gap in air travel, because inflight service remains the very crux of the passenger experience. Travellers remember how they are treated, how comfortable they feel, and how much care is shown throughout the journey.”
He explained that XEjet has built its reputation on consistent service delivery shaped by professionalism and attention to detail. The airline’s philosophy centres on strong customer interaction, disciplined procedures, and a clear focus on safety, comfort, and reliability. Iza emphasised that the cabin crew play a vital role in maintaining this identity, especially as passengers judge airlines by their engagement and inflight quality.
“Our crew are courteous, well-trained, and safety-oriented, and they carry the XEjet values with pride on every flight,” he said. “They understand that hospitality, precision, and safety standards define our brand, and they deliver these qualities with confidence and genuine warmth.”
He added that XEjet continues to strengthen its service principles through targeted programmes designed to improve staff competence and enhance cabin presentations. He noted that the airline has adopted structured feedback systems to better understand passenger needs and refine inflight processes. He emphasised that excellence is built daily and requires discipline and awareness from every crew member.
“For us, excellence is not an event, it is a culture,” he noted. “We ensure that every member of our inflight team understands global best practices and remains fully prepared to uphold them. This is why our passengers trust us and why this recognition is so meaningful.”
He emphasised that the award will serve as motivation for further innovation and deeper customer engagement. “We will keep improving, keep listening, and keep raising the bar,” Iza said. “Our goal is simple: to deliver an inflight experience that reflects reliability, professionalism, and true Nigerian hospitality.”
Aviation analysts attending the Airshow noted that XEjet’s recognition highlights a broader sector shift towards service-focused operations. They added that domestic travellers now expect better Inflight Service standards, more consistent hospitality, and a stronger emphasis on safety. NigerianFLIGHTDECK has previously reported on similar changes across the industry, including efforts by airlines to strengthen cabin procedures and integrate modern service practices. Meanwhile, guidelines from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority continue to support improvements in operational quality and overall safety culture across all airlines.
The award to XEjet therefore represents more than a ceremonial achievement. It symbolises a renewed understanding of the essential role of Inflight Service in shaping passenger satisfaction and influencing airline choice in Nigeria. The recognition also aligns with the growing demand for service excellence within domestic aviation and reflects the efforts of operators who prioritise comfort, safety, and authentic hospitality.
