NCAA approves Enugu Air domestic operations with XEJet partnership, marking a milestone in indigenous airline development and aviation sector reforms

In a move set to boost indigenous participation in Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has approved Enugu Air domestic operations through a strategic partnership with XEJet.

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The approval, confirmed on Monday, allows the newly inaugurated airline to commence commercial flights using XEJet’s operating licence and aircraft fleet.

This milestone comes after Enugu Air was formally launched on July 7, 2025, at an event attended by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah.

The airline will initially operate with three Embraer 170 aircraft, each configured to seat around 76 passengers.

The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, Michael Achimugu, confirmed the development in a statement, noting that the current approval is an interim licence.

It enables operations under XEJet while Enugu Air concludes the regulatory process for its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

“Enugu Air has designated XEJet as its operational partner pending the conclusion of its Air Operator Certificate process,” the statement read.

“XEJet has completed a full variation process to integrate the EMB 170 aircraft into its Operations Specifications, in accordance with NCAA’s five-phase certification procedure.”

The airline’s ticketing services are being processed through XEJet’s booking platform, accessible via a redirect on Enugu Air’s official website.

The arrangement is designed to ensure regulatory compliance and uninterrupted passenger services while supporting Enugu Air’s transition to independent operations.

Industry watchers say the move aligns with the Minister of Aviation’s 5-Point Agenda, which seeks to create a more business-friendly environment for Nigerian airlines, encourage indigenous investment, and deepen sectoral reforms.

“The NCAA is committed to enhancing ease of doing business and supporting the growth of local operators in the aviation space,” the statement added.

“Our processes remain focused on safety, operational integrity, and consumer protection.”

The use of XEJet’s infrastructure reflects a growing trend in Nigeria’s aviation landscape, where start-up carriers collaborate with certified operators to fast-track market entry while navigating the rigorous AOC process.

Governor Peter Mbah, in his remarks at the launch event, praised the approval of Enugu Air domestic operations as a bold step toward strengthening economic growth in the South-East and increasing air connectivity for the region.

Minister Festus Keyamo also expressed confidence in the airline’s prospects, stating that the aviation ministry would continue to support operators working to raise industry standards and serve Nigerian travellers more efficiently.

Observers say the integration of the Embraer 170 aircraft into XEJet’s fleet gives Enugu Air a strong starting point, given the aircraft’s reliability, efficiency, and popularity among regional carriers.

The NCAA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining robust oversight and supporting innovation in airline operations.

The authority said its phased certification system remains the gold standard for ensuring that all carriers, new or existing, meet stringent safety and performance benchmarks.

As Enugu Air domestic operations take off, stakeholders across the aviation industry are watching closely to assess the airline’s performance and long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive market.

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With regulatory backing, government endorsement, and a strategic operational alliance, Enugu Air now joins a growing list of homegrown carriers reshaping Nigeria’s airspace and redefining the future of air travel in the country.