On September 23, 2026, Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, officially launched Enugu Air's maiden international flight to Douala, Cameroon. The ceremony took place at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu. Mbah described the event as a significant achievement in his administration's goal to establish Enugu as a major aviation hub and a preferred destination for investment, business, tourism, and living. He commended the leadership of Enugu Air for the rapid growth of the state-owned airline.
Enugu Air obtained its Air Operator's License just six months after a rigorous regulatory process. The airline has grown rapidly, becoming one of the fastest-growing airlines in Nigeria. Mbah emphasized that Enugu Air is part of a larger plan to make Enugu State a premier destination for investment, living, business, and tourism. The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support for aviation infrastructure and the Minister of Aviation and Aerodrome Development, Festus Keyama, for his role in enabling Enugu Air's growth.
Enugu Air CEO, Capt. Tolu Ita, stated that the airline is not just launching a flight but a new chapter in Enugu's aviation history. She said Enugu is becoming a gateway, connecting people, markets, and possibilities. Ita outlined the airline's vision to build a stronger regional network across Africa and progressively open doors to wider international markets. Enugu Air has already established a domestic network, connecting Enugu with major Nigerian cities, and has now taken its first major step beyond Nigeria with the Enugu-Douala route.
The Managing Director/CEO of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Onabanjo-Kuku, congratulated Enugu Air on its inaugural international flight, describing it as a strong statement of Nigeria's growing capacity to connect people and businesses across West and Central Africa. She assured that FAAN remains committed to providing the necessary infrastructure, safety standards, and support for Enugu Air's operations.
The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), represented by Director of Air Transport Regulations, Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iruobe, noted that 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. The Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, welcomed the new service, highlighting its potential to transform Enugu State into a premier regional hub for commerce and industrial development.
The maiden flight 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. After a brief ceremony, the flight returned to Enugu, marking a historic trip. Enugu Air's growth and expansion have been remarkable, with the airline achieving this milestone in just 14 months.
Key stakeholders, including government officials and aviation experts, have expressed optimism about the future of Enugu Air and its potential to drive economic growth and development in the region. The airline's commitment to upholding the highest operational and ethical standards has been reaffirmed. Enugu Air's inaugural international flight to Douala, Cameroon, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria's aviation industry.
Key points
- Enugu Air's maiden international flight to Douala, Cameroon, marks a major milestone in Enugu State's vision to become a major aviation hub.
- The airline's growth has been rapid, with a focus on connecting people, markets, and possibilities across Africa.
- The Enugu-Douala route is expected to create opportunities for increased trade, investment, tourism, and movement of people between Nigeria and Cameroon.
