NG Eagle Commences Operations in Nigeria with A320-200 Lease

NG Eagle, Nigeria’s emerging carrier, initiated commercial flight operations on December 10, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s aviation landscape. The airline commenced services using an A320-200 aircraft wet-leased from Heston Airlines, aiming to connect various domestic destinations.

Key Points:

1. Inaugural Operations: NG Eagle commenced its commercial flight operations on December 10, operating an Abuja-Lagos route and extending services to other destinations. The launch signifies the beginning of the carrier’s operational journey in the Nigerian aviation market.
2. Aircraft Details: The airline’s inaugural operations involved an A320-200 registered as LY-WSM, sourced through a wet-lease arrangement with Heston Airlines. The aircraft arrived in Nigeria in mid-November and is expected to operate in the country until the end of February 2024.
3. Destinations Served: NG Eagle’s initial routes include the Abuja-Lagos sector and other destinations such as Sokoto, Yola, Port Harcourt Awolowo, Benin City, and Kano. The carrier aims to enhance connectivity within Nigeria by serving key domestic routes.
4. Aircraft Fleet Plans: NG Eagle is reported to be in discussions regarding the addition of a second aircraft to its fleet. The possibility of expanding the fleet is under consideration, reflecting the carrier’s growth ambitions.
5. Background and Ownership: Established in 2019, NG Eagle was formed by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to succeed Arik Air, which is currently under administration. The carrier’s ownership structure underwent changes, and it is now operated by Nigerian aviation services firm Galactic Aviation.
6. Certification Process: NG Eagle faced a protracted certification process, initially put on hold due to changes in ownership. The carrier secured its air operator’s certificate (AOC) using Boeing B737s, part of the assets transferred from Arik Air to newco Super Bravo Limited.
7. Leased Aircraft Usage: NG Eagle asserts compliance with Nigerian law, stating that the use of leased aircraft aligns with the country’s regulations. The carrier obtained Part G approval, emphasizing its adherence to Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs).
8. Nigeria’s Domestic Aviation Market: With NG Eagle’s entry into the market, Nigeria’s scheduled domestic passenger market now features a diverse range of carriers, including Arik Air, Aero Contractors, MaxAir (Nigeria), ValueJet, Air Peace, Ibom Air, Overland Airways, Rano Air, Dana Air, United Nigeria Airlines, Green Africa Airways, and Azman Air (currently dormant).

NG Eagle’s initiation of operations contributes to the dynamic aviation landscape in Nigeria, offering travelers increased options for domestic connectivity. As the carrier expands its network and fleet, it aims to play a significant role in the nation’s aviation sector.