By George Ozalla
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has granted an Air Operator Certificate to Enugu Air, paving the way for the state-backed airline to commence scheduled commercial flight operations within Nigeria’s domestic aviation sector.
The certificate was presented in Abuja by the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo, who described the development as a significant step in strengthening the nation’s aviation industry and expanding air transport services across the country.
The Air Operator Certificate is a mandatory regulatory approval issued by the aviation authority to airlines that have successfully demonstrated their ability to meet strict operational, safety, and technical standards required for commercial flight operations.
Officials of the regulator explained that the certification followed a detailed and multi-stage evaluation process conducted by the authority to ensure that the airline complied with all relevant aviation safety and operational requirements before being cleared to begin services.
According to the aviation authority, the process involved comprehensive inspections and assessments covering areas such as operational procedures, aircraft maintenance systems, safety management protocols, personnel training, and overall organizational readiness for commercial aviation operations.
Speaking during the presentation of the certificate, Najomo commended the airline’s management for successfully navigating the rigorous certification process and urged the company to maintain the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance as it begins flight operations.
He emphasized that safety remains the cornerstone of aviation regulation in Nigeria and noted that the authority will continue to carry out routine oversight and monitoring to ensure that all certified airlines strictly adhere to established standards.
The airline’s management described the certification as a landmark achievement and a major milestone toward strengthening air connectivity in the South-East and other parts of the country.
They expressed optimism that the airline would contribute significantly to economic development, tourism growth, and improved business mobility within the region by providing reliable and efficient air transport services.
Enugu Air is expected to commence operations with an initial fleet of aircraft serving key domestic routes while plans are being developed to expand services to additional destinations as operations stabilize.
Industry observers note that the entry of a new airline into Nigeria’s aviation market could help improve competition within the sector while expanding available travel options for passengers across the country.
Enugu Air was established by the Enugu State Government as part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic activity, improve regional connectivity, and position the state as an important hub for transportation, commerce, and investment in the South-East.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), under its leadership, has embarked on a renewed drive to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen regulatory oversight, and support the growth of domestic carriers, positioning the aviation sector for greater resilience and expansion.
