Enugu Air to expand fleet with six new planes by year-end – Governor Mbah

Enugu State’s Governor, Peter Mbah, announced on Thursday that the state-owned airline, Enugu Air, will bolster its fleet with six additional aircraft before the close of 2025. The announcement came during the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce’s “Meet The Governor Series” event held in Lagos.

The development is a critical component of Enugu’s agenda to strengthen its aviation sector, improve regional connectivity, and attract business and tourism investment into the region. Governor Mbah explained that the state partnered with a private investor to take over the concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport. The airport is currently undergoing upgrades, including the construction of an international terminal and a cargo facility, both slated to be functional by early 2026.

The airline is responding to rapid demand growth that has already surpassed initial expectations following its launch just over two months ago, with six new aircraft scheduled to arrive ahead of the Christmas period. Initial operations began with three planes, primarily Embraer E170 and E190 jets, servicing routes connecting Enugu to Abuja and Lagos. Future plans include expanding the flight network to other Nigerian cities and eventually international destinations.

The governor also noted that the state’s expansion agenda is supported by enhanced security measures and infrastructure improvements, which have contributed to the reduction of crime activities, making Enugu a safer destination for tourists and investors alike.

Beyond aviation, Enugu is pushing forward with other transformative projects, such as coal-to-power schemes intended to produce 1,000 megawatts of clean energy using the state’s abundant low-sulphur coal reserves. These initiatives aim to sustainably power economic growth and ensure that coal resources remain viable assets for the future.

Investment in tourism infrastructure is underway, with the Enugu International Conference Centre recently hosting a major event for over 20,000 participants, and new landmarks such as a five-star hotel and a religious tourism site, the Cross of Hope, nearing completion.

Governor Mbah’s administration is optimistic that these projects will unlock new economic opportunities and elevate Enugu’s profile both nationally and internationally.