Nigeria Air’s aircraft is currently undergoing final preparations in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in anticipation of its journey to Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city.

The plane, already adorned in Nigeria Air’s distinctive colors, is expected to arrive from Ethiopian Airlines for a proposed test flight, as revealed by sources.

However, the airline’s ability to commence operations or conduct demonstration flights, which are part of the requirements to obtain the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC), remains uncertain.

There have been concerns within the industry regarding a purported move by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to waive specific requirements to facilitate the airline’s takeoff.

Furthermore, the ongoing legal challenges faced by Nigeria Air add to the uncertainties surrounding its launch.

A perpetual injunction issued against the airline in a lawsuit filed by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has yet to be overturned. Additionally, a motion challenging the shareholding structure is pending and awaiting a proper hearing.
In a strongly-worded letter addressed to President Buhari, the AON recently highlighted what they perceive as the illegality of the national carrier project, further adding to the complexities surrounding Nigeria Air.

It is noteworthy that Hadi Sirika, the Minister of Aviation, has consistently emphasized that Nigeria Air would commence operations before President Buhari’s tenure concludes on May 29.

During an interview with Channels Television, Sirika stated that a Nigeria Air plane would land in Nigeria in two days, on Friday.
The event would mark the unveiling of the aircraft, showcasing its livery adorned with Nigeria’s colors, symbolizing the essence of Nigeria Air.