Nigeria is considering certifying China’s C919 jet for domestic use, a move that could significantly reshape the country’s aviation sector. The decision comes as the nation seeks to expand its aviation market amid growing demand for air travel.
The C919, a narrow-body aircraft produced by China’s COMAC, is positioned as a competitor to Airbus and Boeing. Although it has yet to secure Western certification, Nigerian authorities are examining the process required to operate it on domestic routes.
With over 230 million people, Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation and one of its fastest-growing aviation markets. Local airlines face a limited range of affordable aircraft options that meet international safety standards. The C919 could provide a viable solution.
Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, director general of Nigeria’s civil aviation authority, confirmed ongoing discussions regarding the certification of the C919. Authorities are weighing the months-long certification process needed to ensure the aircraft meets national operational standards.
COMAC faces significant challenges in gaining international acceptance. The aircraft lacks approvals from the FAA and EASA, essential benchmarks for global operations. Furthermore, production delays and U.S. export restrictions on CFM engines have slowed COMAC’s progress.
Despite these obstacles, COMAC is actively engaging with Nigerian airlines. The company has promised training and maintenance support, crucial for carriers such as NG Eagle, which is considering expanding its fleet with certified C919 jets.
Abdullahi Ahmed, CEO of NG Eagle, stressed the importance of a full support package for pilots and ground staff. “Proper training and maintenance are critical to operating any aircraft safely,” he said, highlighting the airline’s interest in the C919.
Nigeria is also improving aircraft leasing opportunities. Enhanced compliance with the Cape Town Convention simplifies leasing procedures, encouraging airlines to adopt newer models. Dry lease arrangements are being promoted to lower financial barriers for carriers acquiring aircraft.
If certified, the C919 could diversify Nigeria’s aviation landscape, providing airlines with more fleet options and potentially reducing airfare. Real airfares have fallen 43.6% in Nigeria since 2011, a trend that may continue with cost-effective planes like the C919.
Currently, the C919 is operated solely by Chinese airlines, while COMAC’s C909 regional jet is used in Southeast Asia. Nigeria could serve as a strategic entry point for the C919 in Africa, where demand for affordable aircraft is rising.
The outcome of these discussions could redefine Nigeria’s aviation sector, enhance connectivity, and mark a broader global shift toward acceptance of Chinese-made aircraft in emerging markets.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
