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NCAA Clears Enugu Air Launch

NCAA Clears Enugu Air Launch

Enugu Air Launches Domestic Flights with Support from NCAA

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has officially approved the commencement of domestic flight operations by Enugu Air. This decision aligns with the 5-Point Agenda of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, aimed at fostering the growth of indigenous airlines and improving reforms in the aviation sector.

In a statement issued by the NCAA’s spokesperson, Michael Achimugu, it was revealed that Enugu Air has partnered with XEJET as its operational partner while completing its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process. According to the statement, XEJET has completed a full variation process to integrate the EMB 170 aircraft into its Operations Specifications (OpsSpecs), following the NCAA’s five-phase certification procedure.

XEJET is authorized to operate scheduled commercial flights on behalf of Enugu Air under current NCAA guidelines. In the interim, ticket sales for Enugu Air flights are facilitated via the XEJET platform, accessible through a redirect on the Enugu Air official website. The NCAA emphasized its commitment to creating a supportive regulatory environment for indigenous carriers, ensuring fair competition, and upholding high standards of safety, security, and consumer protection in Nigeria’s air transport industry.

Launching of Enugu Air

On Monday, Minister Keyamo announced the inauguration of Enugu Air in Enugu State. During the event, he highlighted that the airline will soon start regional flights to other African countries, emphasizing that this development supports the federal government’s agenda to promote the growth and sustainability of indigenous airlines.

Keyamo expressed that this achievement marks a dream come true, powered by the governor of Enugu State. He explained that obtaining an AOC typically takes up to two years, but Governor Peter Mbah chose to partner with XE Jet, an existing airline, to fast-track the process. The NCAA approved this partnership, allowing Enugu Air to begin operations without delay.

The minister commended the governor for bringing private sector investment into the management of the Enugu airport. He noted that discussions are underway to concession the airport to a consortium of top private investors. Keyamo urged the state government and residents to run Enugu Air professionally, warning against political interference, bureaucracy, and the culture of free tickets.

He emphasized the importance of running the airline efficiently, stating that even if the governor is slightly late, the aircraft should depart promptly. He also warned against giving free tickets to friends, urging the public to support the airline by purchasing tickets.

Keyamo promised to support the growth of Enugu Air by facilitating the acquisition of additional aircraft. He pledged to personally guarantee the leasing of aircraft for Enugu Air and to go around the world to secure them.

State Government Remarks

Governor Mbah stated that the launch of Enugu Air is part of efforts to position Enugu as a premier destination for investment and tourism in Nigeria. He described the airline’s launch as a significant step forward, opening doors to a sector that once seemed out of reach. Mbah praised XE Jet Airlines, a 100% Nigerian-owned entity with a solid record of reliable and sustainable aviation operations.

He outlined plans to create jobs, promote tourism, and offer more efficient travel options for residents, businesses, and the diaspora. Enugu Air will initially operate with three Embraer aircraft, designed for the local terrain. Routes will include Enugu-Abuja-Lagos, extending to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and other cities.

The next phase of Enugu Air will expand operations to African destinations before reaching global business hubs such as China, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The governor emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and efficiency in all aspects of the airline’s operations.