NCAA approves Enugu Air’s domestic launch through interim partnership with XEJET Airlines.
The move fast-tracks operations while AOC process continues, supporting indigenous carriers and boosting market competition.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has granted Enugu Air provisional approval to commence domestic flight operations in partnership with XEJET, pending the completion of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process. The approval enables Enugu Air to commence operations under XEJET regulatory framework in line with NCAA guidelines.
The development was disclosed in a statement on Monday, July 8, by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA. He described the arrangement as part of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s 5-Point Agenda, which aims to promote indigenous airlines, improve the ease of doing business, and enhance sector competitiveness.
“This authorizes XEJET to operate scheduled commercial flights on behalf of Enugu Air under existing regulatory guidelines,” Achimugu stated.
According to the NCAA, XEJET has completed the Authority’s rigorous five-phase certification process, which now allows it to incorporate the Embraer 170 aircraft into its Operations Specifications (OpsSpecs). This integration effectively enables XEJET to handle scheduled flights for Enugu Air using its certified platform.
As part of the interim arrangement, passengers can book Enugu Air flights through the XEJET ticketing system, which is now accessible via a redirect link on Enugu Air’s official website.
This collaboration provides Enugu Air with a smooth pathway to market entry while it finalizes its independent AOC. Industry insiders see it as a practical strategy to fast-track service delivery without compromising regulatory oversight or operational safety.
The move aligns with government efforts to stimulate growth among local airline operators, a priority outlined by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. By allowing partnerships like this, the NCAA is promoting flexibility and innovation in the Nigerian aviation sector while maintaining industry standards.
Achimugu reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting Nigerian carriers within a competitive and safety-conscious framework.
“The NCAA remains committed to fostering a supportive regulatory environment for local carriers while ensuring fair competition and maintaining high standards of safety, security, and consumer protection,” he added.
While the partnership with XEJET offers immediate market access, Enugu Air is still expected to complete its AOC application to operate as a fully independent airline in the long term. The NCAA did not specify a timeline for the conclusion of the certification but confirmed that the process is actively ongoing.
Aviation analysts believe this development could serve as a model for new airlines seeking to enter the market with reduced barriers and improved compliance readiness, particularly in a regulatory environment characterized by complex and stringent entry requirements.
