NCAA grants license for Enugu Air’s domestic flight operations

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has granted an interim license enabling Enugu Air to commence domestic flight operations.

The announcement was made in a statement signed on Monday by NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu.

Enugu Air was officially inaugurated on July 7, 2025, by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, at a ceremony attended by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah. The airline began commercial services with three Embraer 170 aircraft, each seating approximately 76 passengers.

The interim license allows Enugu Air to operate flights through a partnership with XEJet, while it completes the process to obtain its full Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

According to the statement, this approval authorizes Enugu Air to launch services using XEJet’s operational framework and aircraft. This follows a completed variation process that incorporated the Embraer E170 aircraft into XEJet’s Operations Specifications.

Ticket bookings are currently being processed via the XEJet platform, accessible through a redirect on Enugu Air’s official website.

The arrangement aligns with the Minister of Aviation’s 5-Point Agenda, which focuses on growing indigenous airlines and creating a more business-friendly aviation sector.

The NCAA confirmed that XEJet is now authorized to operate scheduled commercial flights on behalf of Enugu Air, in accordance with the Authority’s five-phase certification procedure.

“The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) approves the commencement of domestic flight operations by Enugu Air, supporting the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s 5-Point Agenda aimed at promoting indigenous airlines, enhancing ease of doing business, and deepening sector reforms. Enugu Air has designated XEJet as its operational partner pending the conclusion of its Air Operator Certificate process. XEJet has successfully integrated the EMB 170 aircraft into its Operations Specifications as part of NCAA’s certification procedure and is authorized to operate scheduled flights on behalf of Enugu Air under current NCAA guidelines,” the statement read in part.

The NCAA also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, security, and consumer protection while fostering fair competition within Nigeria’s aviation sector.