Heliconia–EAN Aero Nigeria Secures AOC, Signaling New Era for Charter Operations
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has granted an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Heliconia–EAN Aero Nigeria Limited, officially authorizing the company to commence charter operations within Nigeria. The certificate was formally presented on December 1 at the NCAA’s Abuja headquarters by the Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, marking a significant milestone for both the operator and the country’s aviation sector.
Capt. Najomo emphasized that the successful completion of the rigorous certification process reflects the NCAA’s commitment to supporting the ease of doing business in Nigeria, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance. The AOC is a mandatory requirement for any airline or operator wishing to conduct commercial air transport in Nigeria, confirming that the operator meets all safety, operational, and maintenance standards as set by both national regulations and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
He further clarified that certification is only the beginning of the NCAA’s regulatory engagement. The Authority will intensify post-certification oversight through continuous surveillance, periodic inspections, and data-driven monitoring to ensure that all approved operators consistently adhere to safety and operational requirements—not just at the point of approval, but throughout their operations.
Capt. Najomo outlined that the NCAA’s surveillance framework is designed to detect early warning signals, enforce corrective actions, and preserve public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system. This approach is in line with global best practices and ensures that every certified operator upholds the integrity, safety, and stability of the industry at all times.
The AOC process itself is comprehensive, involving a multi-phase evaluation of the applicant’s personnel, assets, systems, and operational readiness. Only after the NCAA is satisfied that the operator is properly equipped for safe commercial air transport and holds the necessary economic authority is the certificate issued. This robust process is intended to safeguard both passengers and the general public, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a market that values safety and regulatory excellence.
For the wider African aviation industry, the certification of Heliconia–EAN Aero Nigeria Limited is a positive signal of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to streamline regulatory processes and foster a business-friendly environment for new entrants. The NCAA’s approach—balancing ease of entry with uncompromising safety oversight—serves as a model for other regulators across the continent seeking to attract investment and innovation while maintaining global standards.
As Heliconia–EAN Aero Nigeria Limited prepares to launch its charter services, the company will operate under the watchful eye of the NCAA, which remains resolute in its mission to uphold the highest levels of safety, credibility, and industry stability. This development is expected to enhance competition, expand service offerings, and contribute to the overall growth and modernization of Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
For travel professionals and industry stakeholders, the message is clear: Nigeria’s aviation sector is open for business, but with a firm commitment to safety and regulatory integrity. The NCAA’s ongoing vigilance ensures that every operator, new or established, is held to the same rigorous standards—building confidence among passengers, partners, and the global aviation community.
