Enugu joined one of the few Nigerian states to own and operate a commercial airline, as its newest state-owned commercial airline was officially launched on Monday.
Named Enugu Air, the airline takes off with an initial fleet of three Embraer aircraft — the E170 and E190 series.
Speaking at the launch event held at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Governor Peter Mbah positioned the airline as a public-serving enterprise, one that puts the needs of traders, students, business professionals and the everyday traveller at its core.
“This airline doesn’t belong to the government. It belongs to the people. To the traders, the students, the investors, and the travellers — Enugu Air is your airline,” he said.
The governor described Enugu Air as a catalyst for a broader economic mission: to transform the State into a thriving regional powerhouse.With a vision anchored in public-private partnership, the airline is designed to be a gateway to investment, connectivity, and career opportunities.
“This marks the beginning of a new era. An era where infrastructure is not just built for applause, but to serve. Where leadership doesn’t just cut ribbons but creates platforms for generations to thrive,” Mbah said.