Nigeria Airplane Expected to Arrive on Friday, Minister Sirika Announces

In the midst of mounting skepticism surrounding the viability of the National carrier, Hadi Sirika, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, has revealed that the Nigeria Airplane is scheduled to arrive in Nigeria on Friday, a mere five days before the end of the Buhari-led administration.

During an interview on Channels TV, Sirika disclosed that the aircraft would be unveiled in Nigeria’s distinctive colors. He further emphasized that the implementation of the aviation roadmap had been accomplished in its entirety.
“On Friday, in just two days’ time, the Nigeria Airplane will land in Nigeria as a significant step towards commencing operations. On that day, we will proudly reveal the aircraft, adorned in Nigeria’s colors, as a symbol of Nigeria Air. Subsequently, we will proceed with the necessary retrofitting and bring back these airplanes,” Sirika announced.
Nevertheless, it remains uncertain whether the airline will receive clearance to initiate full-scale operations or demonstration flights, as acquiring the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) is a prerequisite. Within the industry, concerns have arisen over alleged efforts by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to waive certain requirements to facilitate the airline’s launch.
Moreover, the perpetual injunction order issued against the airline in the lawsuit brought forward by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) still stands, while the motion challenging the shareholding structure has yet to be heard.
Furthermore, although the airline has obtained the Air Transport License (ATL), a crucial step towards securing the Air Operator Certificate (AOC), it still faces substantial hurdles in meeting the stringent standards of the AOC. Notably, it must adhere to the stipulation of completing 50-hour demonstration flights, a requirement imposed on all aspiring carriers.
The arrival of the Nigeria Airplane marks a pivotal moment in the country’s aviation landscape. However, challenges and uncertainties persist, prompting stakeholders to closely monitor the unfolding developments surrounding the much-anticipated national carrier.