Enugu Air, the new state-owned airline of Enugu State, has officially begun operations, with flights now expanding to include Owerri, rounding off its growing domestic network.
Historic Launch by Governor Peter Mbah
The airline was formally launched on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, in a ceremony led by Governor Peter Mbah, alongside Festus Keyamo, the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Governor Mbah hailed the launch as “a giant leap for the state” and a “gold standard for public-private sector partnership,” noting that “Enugu Air has given more wings to our dreams, and today we take that first flight together”.
Fleet & Initial Routes
Enugu Air commenced operations with a fleet of three Embraer E170 and E190 series aircraft, chosen for their comfort, efficiency, and suitability to regional markets.
The airline initially established a “golden triangle” of connectivity, linking Enugu to Abuja and Lagos, with early expansion plans to include Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and other strategic Nigerian cities.
Our correspondent sighted a commercial which reads:
“A very welcome to you, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, from the flight deck. This is your captain.
“On behalf of the entire management staff of Enugu Air, operated by XEJET, we warmly welcome you on board our Ejet aircraft, precisely and by E190 and E170.
“This is to inform you all that will be commencing flight operations into the beautiful city of Owerri. We’re looking forward to having you all on board. Do look out for seamless flight operations. Thanks for your time”.
Although, the TVC didn’t indicate the exact date and flight schedules from Enugu to Owerri, however, an insider source confirmed to Techeconomy that all has been put in place for the swift commencement of flight to the Heartland City.
Economic Impact: Boosting Enugu’s GDP
Governor Mbah’s administration positioned Enugu Air as a cornerstone of its integrated transport strategy, aimed at transforming Enugu into a regional aviation hub.
The operation is expected to:
- Enhance connectivity between major cities, facilitating business travel and tourism.
- Stimulate trade and mobility, particularly benefiting southeast Nigeria’s economic integration.
- Create jobs across aviation, logistics, tourism, and airport services.
- Attract investment by positioning Enugu as a premier destination for commerce and enterprise.
Festus Keyamo urged that Enugu Air should avoid the fate of the old Nigerian Airways, encouraging professional management, punctuality, and operational discipline, a vital prescription for sustaining economic gains.
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Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, born on March 17, 1972, has been serving as the Governor of Enugu State since May 29, 2023. A maritime lawyer and financial analyst by background, he has emphasized innovation, infrastructure, and public-private partnership throughout his tenure.
