Ekiti Airport gets NCAA approval for commercial flights, marking a major step in economic growth and regional connectivity from October 2025

Ekiti Airport commercial flight approval has officially been granted by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), enabling the commencement of scheduled passenger and cargo services from the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport.

Also read: AfDB to disburse $500 million to Nigeria by year-end

This significant milestone follows the expiration of the airport’s non-scheduled flight permit in December 2024, and comes after a successful compliance inspection by the NCAA.

In a letter dated 3 October 2025, addressed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the regulatory body confirmed the issuance of an interim operational permit, effective from 2 October 2025 and valid for six months.

The NCAA’s validation inspection, carried out from 16 to 19 June 2025, confirmed that the airport met essential operational and safety standards for scheduled flight services.

The letter, signed by Engineer Godwin Balang, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, noted that the airport’s performance was found to be satisfactory based on the NAMA instrument flight check.

“The basic operational requirements for scheduled flight operations to Ado-Ekiti Airport have been significantly complied with,” the letter stated.

The permit allows operations under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), meaning flights can take place only in daylight hours, pending further certification processes.

The interim approval enables the Ekiti Airport to commence commercial activity while addressing any outstanding compliance gaps.

The next phase involves obtaining a full Aerodrome Operational Permit with a three-year validity, in line with Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) Part 12.

Reacting to the development, Governor Biodun Oyebanji described the NCAA’s approval as a transformational step for Ekiti State’s economy, with far-reaching benefits for agribusiness, tourism, commerce, and medical travel.

“This is another bold step in our quest to make Ekiti a preferred destination for people looking for where to live, work, invest, and relax,” he said in a statement.

He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering subnational development and praised former Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who initiated the airport project in 2019.

He also acknowledged Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) and the Airport Implementation Committee for their instrumental support.

Governor Oyebanji disclosed that plans are underway to install an Instrument Landing System (ILS), which will allow the airport to function at night and under diverse weather conditions, further elevating its operational capacity.

Also read: AfDB to disburse $500 million to Nigeria by year-end

The approval marks a major stride in improving regional connectivity, positioning Ekiti as a growing hub for investment and logistics in southwest Nigeria.

Ekiti Airport secures commercial flight approval