Nigeria’s Enugu Air, a state-owned carrier, received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on March 10, 2026, enabling independent scheduled commercial operations.
The certificate presentation occurred at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja, attended by aviation officials, Enugu Air executives, and Enugu State Government representatives. NCAA Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo described the event as historic, noting Enugu Air completed the rigorous certification process—including operational demonstrations, documentation reviews, and evaluations—in five months and three weeks, far shorter than the typical 15 to 24 months. He highlighted the airline’s launch with a full fleet of six aircraft, a rarity for new Nigerian carriers, and urged ongoing compliance with safety and operational standards.
Enugu Air’s Accountable Manager and CEO, Capt. Tolu Ita, called the AOC “a dream come true” and affirmed commitment to aviation standards. Board Chairman Barr. Ricky Agu pledged world-class operations, while Enugu State Commissioner for Transportation Dr. Obi Ozor positioned the airline as key to regional connectivity from Akanu Ibiam International Airport, linking Enugu to destinations like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Owerri.
Prior to independence, Enugu Air operated under XE Jet’s AOC using Embraer E170, E190, and E195 jets across six domestic routes since 2025. Officials plan fleet expansion to 20 aircraft and regional flights by year-end 2026.