The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has granted an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Enugu Air, clearing the airline to commence scheduled flight operations and marking a new addition to Nigeria’s domestic aviation sector.
The certificate was presented at the regulator’s headquarters in Abuja by the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo, who described the development as a significant milestone in the Authority’s efforts to strengthen the country’s aviation industry while maintaining strict regulatory oversight.
Najomo noted that the certification process involves several rigorous stages designed to ensure airlines meet international safety and operational benchmarks. These stages include documentation reviews, operational demonstrations, and multiple technical evaluations conducted by the NCAA’s specialist teams.
While congratulating the airline on successfully completing the process, the DGCA emphasised that maintaining the certification would require continuous adherence to safety and operational standards. He cautioned that any decline in compliance could lead to the withdrawal of the licence.
Najomo also commended the NCAA technical team and the management of Enugu Air for their commitment throughout the certification exercise, which he said reflected the regulator’s ongoing efforts to make the approval process more efficient without compromising safety requirements.
Responding on behalf of the airline, Tolu Ita described the certification as a major achievement and a dream realised for the airline’s team. She expressed appreciation to the aviation regulator for its guidance and oversight during what she described as a rigorous but necessary process.
Ita also acknowledged the role of the Enugu State Government in supporting the establishment of the airline, particularly the leadership of Peter Mbah, whose vision she said helped create the enabling environment for the project.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Obi Ozor said the airline forms a key part of the state government’s broader transport and logistics development strategy aimed at expanding economic opportunities across Enugu State and the wider South-East region.
According to him, the airline plans to gradually expand its fleet to about 20 aircraft and begin regional operations before the end of 2026. The expansion is expected to strengthen connectivity between Enugu and major domestic and international destinations while supporting trade, tourism, investment and passenger mobility.
Officials said the launch of Enugu Air is expected to contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s domestic aviation market by improving route connectivity and providing additional capacity for travellers within the country and across the region.
