The recent launch of Enugu Air marks another milestone in the continuous development and expansion of Nigeria’s aviation and tourism sectors.

Initiated by the Enugu State government, the airline’s inaugural flight on July 7, 2025, appears to be a deliberate strategy to position the state as one of the preferred destinations for investment, business, and tourism in Nigeria.

This move is also part of a growing trend of state governments in Nigeria turning to aviation to unlock economic potential.

Beyond the initial excitement, the success of Enugu Air hinges on its ability to effectively integrate with and drive the state’s tourism agenda.

By increasing accessibility and offering competitive fares, airlines can directly influence a destination’s appeal. The presence of a dedicated carrier provides greater control over route development and allows for strategic connections to target markets across Nigeria.

It has to be said that improving connectivity between different locations in Nigeria is not only about transporting people, but also about creating pathways for economic activity, cultural exchange, and leisure travel.

For Enugu, a dedicated airline presents a unique opportunity to overcome accessibility challenges and bring its natural and cultural tourism offerings to a wider audience.

The government’s vision for Enugu Air is ambitious. The airline, operating in a technical partnership with the private Nigerian airline XEJet, aims to grow Enugu’s economy from \$4 billion to \$30 billion and attract over three million tourists annually.

The initial phase will see the airline, with its fleet of three Embraer aircraft, connect Enugu with key Nigerian commercial hubs like Lagos and Abuja. The long-term plan includes expansion to other Nigerian cities, regional African destinations, and eventually major international hubs in Europe, Asia, and North America. This phased approach, if managed prudently, could systematically build Enugu’s profile as a travel destination.

The state government is already laying the groundwork for a tourism renaissance, with significant investments in new attractions. Plans for Africa’s longest canopy walkway at Nsude, a zipline at Ngwo, and the development of water parks are underway.
These new projects, combined with the state’s rich cultural heritage, provide the substantive tourism products that Enugu Air can market and make accessible. The airline can play a role in packaging these attractions and promoting them to specific traveler demographics.

**Lessons from Within**
The experiences of other Nigerian states with their own airlines offer ready insights. Akwa Ibom’s Ibom Air is widely regarded as a success story. It has not only improved connectivity to the state but has also been credited with contributing to its economy and raising its profile as a destination for conferences and events.

The airline’s professional management and operational efficiency have been key to its achievements.

In contrast, Cross River’s Cally Air has faced challenges. Despite the state’s prominent tourism brand, issues with flight scarcity and high fares have hampered its ability to effectively serve the tourism market.

This underscores the importance of consistent and affordable air access in sustaining a tourism-dependent economy. For Enugu Air to succeed, it must learn from both the triumphs of Ibom Air and the struggles of Cally Air.

To maximize Enugu Air’s impact on tourism, first, integrated marketing is essential. The airline’s marketing efforts should be linked with the state’s tourism promotion campaigns. This includes co-branded advertising, featuring Enugu’s destinations, and offering special packages that bundle flights with accommodation and tours.

Second, strategic route planning should be a priority. Beyond the initial high-traffic routes, Enugu Air should consider season-based collaboration with tour operators in target states where most of its people are based. This strategy can help identify new demand and de-risk the opening of new routes.

Third, the creation of attractive tourism packages. By partnering with hotels, tour operators, and cultural event organizers, Enugu Air can offer deals that simplify travel planning and provide value for money. This is effective for attracting first-time visitors and leisure travelers, whether it is before, during, or after festive periods.

Finally, a non-negotiable commitment to professionalism and operational efficiency. The airline must be shielded from political interference and run as a commercial enterprise. Punctuality, safety, and excellent customer service will be fundamental to building a strong brand and earning traveler loyalty.

The launch of Enugu Air is a bold and promising initiative. However, the aircraft themselves are merely the vehicles. The true measure of their success will be their ability to catalyze economic growth, with tourism as a primary beneficiary. For the sake of everyone involved, it is hoped that Enugu Air can play its part in transforming Enugu into a leading tourism destination in Nigeria.

Dr. Gbadebo writes from Lagos