Ekiti airport to begin non-scheduled flight operations December 15

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has approved the commencement of non-scheduled flight operations at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport (EAICA) in Ado-Ekiti.

The NCAA gave the approval in a letter dated December 11, 2024, addressed to the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. 

It permits the airport to operate under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) for six months, from December 15, 2024, to June 15, 2025.  

According to the NCAA, the temporary approval allows the airport time to address outstanding corrective action items and finalize findings from the authority’s recent inspection.  

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As part of the approval conditions, the airport must collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure the provision of critical services, including Air Traffic Services, Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, Aviation Security, and Meteorological Services.  

The state government had previously signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Service Level Agreements with federal aviation bodies to facilitate seamless airport operations.  

Under the current approval, the airport will accommodate private jets and chartered flights between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (sunrise to sunset). Meanwhile, preparations are ongoing for final authorization to begin commercial flight operations.  

Governor Biodun Oyebanji described the NCAA’s approval as a transformative achievement for the state. He emphasized that the development validates the state’s substantial investment in the project and positions the airport as a driver of Ekiti’s socioeconomic growth.  

“This approval marks a significant milestone for Ekiti State. It is a testament to our commitment to making Ekiti more accessible and creating opportunities for our people,” the governor said.  

Earlier in the year, Governor Oyebanji had assured stakeholders that the airport would begin operations before the end of 2024.  

The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity and driving economic development in the state. With its strategic focus on agro-allied cargo and passenger services, the airport aims to serve as a hub for commerce, agriculture, and tourism in Ekiti and the surrounding regions.

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