Enugu Air takes off, marking new era in Southeast aviation

Summary

• Enugu Air launches with inaugural flight from Lagos to Enugu on 7 July 2025
• State-owned carrier aims to boost economic growth, job creation, and regional connectivity
• Operated in partnership with XEJet, with expansion plans to other Nigerian and international cities

Enugu, Nigeria – Enugu State achieved a major milestone on Monday, 7 July 2025, as Enugu Air, the state’s newly established commercial airline, officially commenced operations with its inaugural flight landing at Akanu Ibiam International Airport.

The launch, hailed as a bold step in Nigeria’s aviation history, marks the realisation of Governor Peter Mbah’s vision to position Enugu as a leading aviation and economic hub.

The event was attended by top dignitaries including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who described the airline as a “gold standard for government-private sector partnership.” Governor Mbah, in his remarks, called Enugu Air an “economic enabler and job creator,” aimed at connecting the Southeast region to national and global opportunities.

Enugu Air begins operations with a fleet of three Embraer E170 and E190 aircraft, known for fuel efficiency and comfort. The airline is operated by private carrier XEJet, and financing support was provided by Fidelity Bank PLC. Its initial route network connects Enugu with Abuja and Lagos—the so-called “golden triangle” of Nigeria’s commercial and political activity—with future expansion plans targeting cities such as Port Harcourt, Benin, Owerri, and Kano, as well as international destinations.

The project represents a model of public-private cooperation. While the Enugu State Government owns the brand, operational responsibilities lie with experienced aviation stakeholders. Minister Keyamo praised the approach but cautioned against bureaucratic inefficiencies, referencing the collapse of Nigeria Airways as a cautionary tale.

Residents and stakeholders across the Southeast have responded enthusiastically. The Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu, highlighted the airline’s potential to draw investors and improve market access. Meanwhile, some social media users urged transparency around the airline’s ownership structure and long-term plans.

Enugu Air’s operations are supported by recent infrastructure upgrades at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, including runway repairs and planned terminal improvements. These are expected to accommodate growing passenger traffic and support the state’s ambition of attracting three million annual visitors and achieving a $30 billion economy.

As of 7 July, Enugu Air is fully operational, with bookings available and daily flights active. The airline is expected to play a transformative role in regional mobility, job creation, and trade facilitation. Its success, however, will depend on professional management, public accountability, and continuous investment.

With its launch, the Airline joins a growing list of sub-national aviation initiatives in Nigeria, but stands out as a symbol of ambition, innovation, and regional pride in Nigeria’s Southeast.