Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has flagged off the first-ever international service by Enugu Air, a state-owned airline. The inaugural flight departed from Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu to Douala International Airport in Cameroon. Mbah described the launch as a major milestone in his administration's vision to grow Enugu into a major aviation hub and a preferred destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.
The Enugu-Douala service is the airline's first international route, achieved just 14 months after obtaining its Air Operator's License. Governor Mbah commended the leadership of Enugu Air for its fast growth, noting that the airline is one of the fastest-growing in Nigeria. He emphasized that Enugu Air is part of the state's masterplan to make Enugu a premier destination for investment, living, business, and tourism.
Enugu Air CEO, Capt. Tolu Ita, said the launch of the international flight is a new chapter for the airline and Enugu State. She stressed that Enugu Air aims to build an airline that connects people, markets, and possibilities. The airline plans to continue building a stronger regional network across Africa while progressively opening doors to wider international markets.
The Managing Director/CEO of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Onabanjo-Kuku, congratulated Enugu Air on its fast growth and assured of FAAN's commitment to providing infrastructure, safety standards, and support for the airline's operations. She noted that Akanu Ibiam International Airport now takes a firm step as a regional hub.
The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), represented by Director of Air Transport Regulations, Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iruobe, said the direct connection between Enugu and Douala would create opportunities for increased trade, investment, tourism, and movement of people, strengthening social and economic ties between Nigeria and Cameroon.
Enugu State Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, said the new service to Douala marked a monumental leap forward in the state's trade, investment, and economic integration strategy. He noted that the direct link advances the goal of transforming Enugu State into a premier regional hub for commerce and industrial development.
The maiden flight to Douala departed Akanu Ibiam International Airport in the early hours of the afternoon and touched down safely at the Douala International Airport, where it was received by Cameroonian authorities in a brief ceremony before returning to Enugu. The launch of the international flight marks a significant achievement for Enugu Air and Enugu State.
Key points
- Enugu Air launches its first international flight to Douala, Cameroon.
- The airline aims to build a stronger regional network across Africa and expand to wider international markets.
- The launch marks a major milestone in Enugu State's vision to become a major aviation hub.
