The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has granted provisional approval to Enugu Air to begin operating domestic flights in collaboration with XEJet.
This development comes as the airline continues its process of securing a full Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
The announcement was made in a statement issued by Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Under the arrangement, Enugu Air is authorised to initiate flight services using XEJet’s infrastructure and aircraft. The approval follows a successful variation process that has officially included the Embraer E170 jet in XEJet’s operational documentation.
As outlined by the NCAA, XEJet is now permitted to conduct scheduled passenger services on behalf of Enugu Air, operating under the Authority’s five-stage certification model.
“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) approves the commencement of domestic flight operations by Enugu Air, in line with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s 5-Point Agenda aimed at promoting the growth of indigenous airlines, the DGCA’s mantra of enhancing the ease of doing business, and deepening sectoral reforms.
“Enugu Air has designated XEJet as its operational partner pending the conclusion of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process.
“Pursuant to this partnership, XEJet has completed a full variation process to integrate the EMB 170 aircraft into its Operations Specifications (OpsSpecs), in accordance with the NCAA’s five-phase certification procedure. As such, XEJet is duly authorised to operate scheduled commercial flights on behalf of Enugu Air under current NCAA guidelines,” the statement read in part.
The agency also confirmed that passengers can book tickets through the XEJet reservation system, accessible via a redirection link on Enugu Air’s official website.
This operational setup aligns with the aviation ministry’s strategic objectives of bolstering indigenous carriers and simplifying the business environment within the aviation sector.
The NCAA reiterated its dedication to maintaining rigorous standards of safety, security, and consumer rights protection while promoting fair competition among domestic carriers.
Enugu Air officially launched on Monday, July 7, 2025, during an event presided over by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. The ceremony was also attended by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah.
Initially, the airline commenced service with three Embraer 170 aircraft, each configured to accommodate approximately 76 passengers.
At present, Enugu Air operates under the license and framework of XEJet until its full certification process is finalised. Its maiden domestic routes include Enugu–Abuja and Enugu–Lagos, with plans to expand operations to additional Nigerian cities and launch regional services across Africa. Governor Mbah emphasised that the broader goal is to position Enugu as a major aviation gateway on the continent.
As of Tuesday, July 8, 2025, the airline’s website (https://enuguairlines.com/) redirects customers to XEJet’s platform for booking. A note on the homepage clarifies: “This flight is operated by XEJet, and you will be redirected to the XEJet website to complete your booking.”
Ticket fares currently displayed on the platform list ₦110,001 as the price for flights on both the Enugu–Abuja and Enugu–Lagos routes.
(Newsng)
