By Friday Omosola
The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport (EAICA) in Ado-Ekiti to received the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority’s (NCAA) approval to begin non-scheduled flight operations on December 15, 2024.
In a letter dated December 11, 2024, addressed to the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, the NCAA granted the airport permission to operate under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) for six months, from December 15, 2024, to June 15, 2025.
The approval, signed by the Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo was in response to the state government’s application for a flight operational permit.
The NCAA noted that the six-month approval would allow the state government to address pending corrective action items identified during its last inspection. It also provides a window for validating the implementation of its findings.
To ensure compliance, the airport’s non-scheduled operations will be coordinated with relevant agencies for essential services, including Air Traffic Services, Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, Aviation Security, and Meteorological services.
Ekiti State had earlier signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Service Level Agreements with these federal aviation bodies in preparation for the airport’s operations.
Governor Oyebanji described the approval as a significant milestone and a testament to the state’s investment in the airport project.
He emphasised that the project aims to enhance Ekiti State’s socio-economic development by improving accessibility and attracting investment.
“This approval is a welcome development and a clear justification of our commitment to boosting Ekiti’s economy. The airport will enhance trade, tourism, and overall development in our state,” the governor said.
The NCAA’s approval allows private jets and chartered flights to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily, paving the way for eventual commercial flight operations.
Non-scheduled flight approvals are typical for new airports as they work towards closing audit gaps and achieving full operational compliance.
Earlier this year, Governor Oyebanji assured stakeholders that the airport would become operational before the end of 2024.
