25-Mar-2026

Binani Air has secured its AOC from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, marking a regulatory milestone that enables the transition from charter operations to scheduled services.
Founded by former senator Aishatu Binani Dahiru, the airline becomes Nigeria’s first female-led carrier, signalling a shift in gender representation within the aviation sector.
With Lagos as its hub, Binani Air is positioned to enter domestic and potentially regional markets, where increased competition is expected to enhance service quality, expand connectivity and put downward pressure on fares.

Binani Air Global Services, commonly known as Binani Air, has officially received an air operator certificate (AOC) from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The certification was announced at a formal ceremony in Abuja on 17 March, where NCAA director-general Chris Najomo hailed the award as both a “historic milestone and significant breakthrough,” highlighting the broader implications for Nigeria’s air transport sector. “The process of obtaining an AOC is rigorous, demanding and non-negotiable in terms of compliance,” Najomo remarked. “Binani Air has demonstrated remarkable determination and consistency in meeting the stringent regulatory standards required for certification.”

Founded by Aishatu Binani Dahiru, a former senator and long-time advocate for women in leadership, Binani Air stands out not only for its operational ambitions but also for its symbolic significance. The airline is the first in Nigeria to be led by a woman, signalling a meaningful step forward for gender representation in the country’s traditionally male-dominated aviation industry.

Binani Air’s journey to the AOC reflects both the challenges and opportunities inherent in Nigeria’s aviation sector. According to CAPA, the airline has already held an AOC since July 2024 for non-scheduled operations, allowing it to conduct charter and ad hoc flights. Transitioning to scheduled services represents a considerable growth in operational complexity, requiring robust systems for safety, training and compliance.

While the granting of the AOC is an important achievement, it represents only the beginning of a more demanding phase. “The airline’s management must prioritise meticulous planning, professionalism and unwavering adherence to safety and operational standards. In this industry, there is no room for shortcuts,” Najomo said.

With Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport as its primary hub, the carrier is well positioned to serve key domestic routes and potentially expand to regional destinations. Experts suggest that additional competition in the Nigerian market could stimulate service quality improvements, lower fares and broaden connectivity for passengers.

The post Binani Air AOC marks a key milestone for Nigeria appeared first on Air Cargo Week.

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Author: Edward Hardy

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