Enugu State has officially joined the growing list of Nigerian states operating a commercial airline, following the formal launch of Enugu Air on Monday.
With this development, Enugu becomes the third state in the country to venture into the aviation industry.
The newly established carrier marked its debut with a ceremonial flight that landed at the newly upgraded international wing of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, from Lagos.
The flight was piloted by Enugu-born Captain Kelechi Ossai and featured one of the airline’s three Embraer jets, which comprise its initial fleet.
The entry of Enugu Air into the market positions it as the latest participant in Nigeria’s expanding aviation sector, aiming to boost both domestic and regional connectivity.
While commissioning the airline, Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, assured of the federal government’s backing to ensure the airline’s long-term success.
“Approvals for regional routes out of Enugu are already in progress,” Keyamo stated. He also addressed the government’s decision to concession the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, noting that “it is a necessity.”
For Governor Peter Mbah, the unveiling of Enugu Air represents more than a transport milestone, it is a strategic investment in the state’s economic transformation.
“The launch of Enugu Air is not just another infrastructure project, but a bold economic enabler,” Mbah declared.
He explained that operations would initially begin with a triangular route connecting Enugu, Abuja, and Lagos, with future expansion planned to include cities like Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, and Kano.
There are also long-term plans to introduce international destinations, further integrating Enugu into global air traffic routes.
