NCAA ISSUES AIR OPERATOR CERTIFICATE TO ENUGU AIR

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Enugu Air, clearing the state-owned carrier to begin scheduled commercial flight operations within Nigeria’s domestic aviation market.

The certification was presented at the aviation regulator’s headquarters in Abuja, marking a significant milestone for the airline’s transition into a fully licensed commercial operator.

Director-General of the NCAA, Chris Najomo, said the airline successfully completed the rigorous certification process in a relatively short time, describing the development as a major step for Nigeria’s aviation industry.

The issuance of the certificate allows Enugu Air to operate scheduled passenger flights independently, following months of regulatory assessments covering safety standards, operational capacity, and financial readiness.

Before obtaining the AOC, the airline had been operating through a partnership with private carrier XEJET while undergoing the certification process required by the aviation regulator.

Owned by the Enugu State Government, the airline was launched in 2025 as part of efforts by Governor Peter Mbah to expand air connectivity and position the South-East region as a hub for investment, tourism, and commerce.

Industry observers say the airline’s certification is expected to strengthen domestic air travel links in the region and create new opportunities for economic growth, logistics, and regional connectivity across Nigeria.