Launch Date: July 7, 2025
Location: Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu
Aircraft: 3 Embraer Jets (E170 and E190 series)
Initial Routes: Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano
Planned Expansion: West and Central Africa by end of 2025
Overview
On July 7, 2025, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State officially launched Enugu Air, a state-owned airline designed to improve regional connectivity and foster economic development. The airline commenced operations from Akanu Ibiam International Airport, positioning itself as a vital player in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Key Features
- Fleet: Launch with 3 Embraer aircraft (E170 and E190 series)
- Partnership: Developed in collaboration with private aviation company Xejet
- Budget Backing: Supported by a ₦41.1 billion transportation budget
- Expansion Plans: Acquisition of 4 additional aircraft expected within 2025
Strategic Goals
- Enhance regional connectivity
- Drive economic diversification
- Stimulate tourism and investment
- Establish Enugu as a regional aviation hub
Stakeholder Reactions
Local leaders and residents have welcomed the initiative:
- Dr. Eric Odo and Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu highlighted its potential to streamline travel and boost commerce
- Paschal Nweke, a local trader, commended the project but raised concerns over affordability and urged the government to ensure competitive pricing
Airport Concession and Infrastructure Upgrades
The launch of Enugu Air aligns with the ongoing concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, now over 70% complete. Planned upgrades include:
- Modernized international terminal
- Expanded cargo facilities
These improvements will reinforce Enugu's emerging role as a major aviation and logistics hub in the region.
Conclusion
Enugu Air represents more than a new airline—it is a bold statement of regional pride, a move toward economic transformation, and a major step in enhancing intra-African connectivity from Nigeria’s Southeast.
Sources
- News Central: Enugu Air Set for Takeoff(https://newscentral.africa/enugu-air-set-for-takeoff-in-may-2025-airport-upgrade-progresses/)
- Nairametrics: Enugu Government Budget for Aircraft Acquisition(https://nairametrics.com/2024/11/26/enugu-government-plans-acquisition-of-four-new-aircraft-for-enugu-air-in-2025-budget/)