The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has presented Nigeria Air, the country’s proposed national carrier, with an Air Transport Licence (ATL), as the long-talked about airline takes another step towards its hoped-for launch this summer.

The ATL certification, which outlines Nigeria Air’s intended operations including domestic and international services, will need to be followed by the Air Operator’s Certificate, which enables the airline to begin operating commercial flights.

Scheduled, non-scheduled passenger and cargo services

The ATL was signed by the Director-General of the NCAA, Captain Musa Nuhu, and applies for a five-year period, until June 2, 2027.

Nigeria Air Limited applied to the NCAA in April for a licence to operate scheduled and non-scheduled passenger as well as cargo services.

2018 Farnborough Airshow

The Nigerian Government announced its plans for the new national carrier at the 2018 Farnborough Airshow.

At the time, the Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika, said talks were ongoing with both Airbus and Boeing regarding the Nigeria Air fleet, adding that 81 routes would be launched.

Plans subsequently stalled but the interim management board is said to be targeting a launch later in 2022.

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