Mbah stated that Enugu Air will link Nigeria with the rest of the world.

This ambitious declaration was made during the startup ceremony of the airline’s first flight at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on Monday.

At the event, Mbah highlighted that Enugu Air goes beyond merely serving domestic routes; it is part of a larger goal to establish Enugu as a significant aviation center for the South-East and a link between Nigeria and global destinations.

“Our aim is to transform Enugu into a vital connecting point for travelers from Africa and around the world. Enugu Air will not only enhance domestic travel but also provide essential connections to different countries, boosting tourism, trade, and overall economic growth,” stated Mbah.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who kicked off the airline's first flight, lauded the initiative as a groundbreaking step that showcases the strength of regional vision.

Joined by key officials from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Airspace Management Authority, the Minister congratulated the Enugu State Government for investing in essential infrastructure that fosters economic integration and positions Nigeria as a rising aviation center.

He remarked, “This launch signifies more than a mere event. It demonstrates how a state government can take the lead with vision and create the infrastructure needed for both internal and external connectivity in Nigeria.”

Xejet will operate the airline, starting with domestic services, but the Governor intends to swiftly expand its routes to regional and international locations.

Sources reveal that the airline's operations are supported by a public-private partnership focused on ensuring safety, quality service, and sustainability.

While specific details about the partnership were not disclosed at the time of this writing, the Federal Ministry of Aviation reiterated its commitment to the project, promising a regulatory framework that meets international standards and fosters innovation within the industry.

Furthermore, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has granted permission for the airline to begin domestic flights through a temporary arrangement with XEJET while the Air Operator Certificate process is finalized.

This regulatory approval is consistent with the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s 5-Point Agenda, which emphasizes advancing local airlines and the commitment of the Director-General of Civil Aviation to improve business operations and implement sectoral reforms.

Enugu Air has partnered with XEJET as its operational carrier while awaiting its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), which can take up to two years to obtain. XEJET has completed the required five-phase NCAA certification to operate Embraer 170 aircraft and is fully authorised to run scheduled commercial flights on behalf of Enugu Air. In the interim, flight bookings can be made via XEJET’s platform through a redirect from Enugu Air’s website.

Launched by Governor Peter Mbah in July 2025, Enugu Air is part of a broader strategy to position the state as a regional aviation hub. Starting with three Embraer jets on the Enugu–Abuja–Lagos route, the airline aims to boost tourism, create jobs, and improve connectivity for both the diaspora and the business community. Governor Mbah highlighted the airline as a symbol of dignified access to the state and a model for public-private partnerships.

The NCAA expressed full support for the initiative, pledging to maintain a regulatory environment that encourages fair competition and high safety standards. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo urged the airline to avoid political interference and operate professionally, while also promising assistance in acquiring more aircraft. NCAA Director-General Chris Najomo described the XEJET partnership as a smooth path for Enugu to enter the aviation sector.