Enugu Air has achieved another significant milestone in its rapid growth trajectory, securing membership of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) as the 50th member of the continental aviation body.
AFRAA announced the admission in Nairobi on Wednesday, describing Enugu Air’s entry as a boost to its membership base in Nigeria’s expanding domestic aviation market and a further step towards strengthening African air connectivity.
The association said its member airlines collectively account for more than 85 per cent of the total international traffic carried by African airlines.
Welcoming Enugu Air, AFRAA Secretary General, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, said the airline’s admission reflected the importance of indigenous investment in developing a stronger African aviation industry.
“We are delighted to welcome Enugu Air into the AFRAA fraternity.
“As a state-backed carrier serving Nigeria’s rapidly expanding domestic market, Enugu Air represents the kind of homegrown investment that is vital to building resilient air connectivity across our continent.
“We look forward to supporting the airline through the IOSA certification process and to its continued growth within the AFRAA membership, as we work together to advance the cause of unified African skies,” Berthé said.
Reacting to the development, Enugu Air Chief Executive Officer, Capt. Tolu Ita, described the airline’s admission into AFRAA as a major achievement barely a year after its establishment.
“We are honoured to join the AFRAA fraternity. This membership underscores Enugu Air’s commitment to safe, reliable, and affordable air travel for Nigerians while contributing to the vision of a unified African aviation market.
“We look forward to collaborating with fellow AFRAA members and leveraging the association’s support as we grow our network and pursue IOSA certification,” Ita stated.
Enugu Air was established on July 7, 2025, and commenced commercial operations with Embraer E170, E190 and E195 aircraft.
The airline, headquartered in Enugu and operating from Akanu Ibiam International Airport, currently serves nine domestic destinations, including Enugu, Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano and Benin City.
As part of its expansion plans, the carrier intends to deepen its presence across Nigeria before subsequently launching regional and international routes connecting the country with other destinations across Africa, Europe and beyond.
The AFRAA membership is expected to provide Enugu Air with opportunities for greater collaboration with other African carriers, technical support and industry engagement as it pursues IOSA certification and expands its network.
AFRAA said the admission was consistent with its strategic priorities of promoting African airlines and advancing the development of an integrated continental aviation market.
Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, remains central to efforts to build a more interconnected and competitive African aviation industry.
Founded in Accra, Ghana, in April 1968 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA promotes and serves African airlines while advocating the development of the continent’s aviation sector.
The association’s membership cuts across Africa and includes major intercontinental carriers, collectively representing more than 85 per cent of international traffic carried by African airlines.
