The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has issued an interim authorisation allowing Enugu Air to begin domestic flight operations through a partnership with XEJet, while its Air Operator Certificate is being finalized.
The approval was announced in a statement signed by NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Under the arrangement, Enugu Air will operate using XEJet’s existing infrastructure and aircraft, following a completed variation process that incorporated the Embraer E170 into XEJet’s approved Operations Specifications.
The NCAA confirmed that XEJet is now authorised to operate scheduled commercial flights on behalf of Enugu Air, in accordance with the Authority’s five-phase certification process.
“The Nigeria 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 DGCAs mantra enhancing 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 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 statement added that ticket bookings are currently being processed through the XEJet platform, accessible via a redirect link on Enugu Air’s official website.
The statement further noted that the arrangement aligns with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s 5-Point Agenda, which emphasises the growth of indigenous airlines and the creation of a more business-friendly operating environment.
The NCAA also reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, security, and consumer protection, while promoting fair competition within Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Enugu Air was officially launched on Monday, 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 operations with a fleet of three Embraer 170 aircraft, each capable of carrying approximately 76 passengers.
Enugu Air operates in collaboration with XEJet, which serves as its licensed operational partner pending the completion of its Air Operator Certificate.
