The Federal Government of Nigeria is currently in the process of certifying China’s C919 jet for use by the country’s carriers. According to Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the agency is considering the certification process for the jet to operate on domestic routes. This development is part of China’s efforts to expand its presence in the global aviation market, with the C919 jet being produced by Chinese planemaker COMAC to compete with leading Western planemakers Airbus and Boeing.
COMAC has been in talks with Nigeria over the aircraft and has offered maintenance and training support for any planes operated by Nigerian carriers. The company is also exploring dry lease arrangements, which involve leasing aircraft without crew. Najomo stated that the NCAA is looking at the certification of the airplane, and if COMAC can facilitate a good dry lease arrangement, it would be beneficial. This development is expected to boost confidence among lessors, enabling the country’s 13 airlines to access newer planes on the leasing market.
The C919 jet is currently operated only by Chinese airlines, but certification by the Nigerian government could pave the way for its use by airlines in other African countries. However, COMAC faces challenges, including the lack of benchmark certifications from Western regulators and delays in delivery targets. The US has also temporarily halted exports of the CFM engines used on the C919 due to trade conflicts.
Despite these challenges, the certification process is significant for Nigeria’s aviation industry, which has seen a decline in air travel costs in recent years. According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), average real airfare fell 43.6% between 2011 and 2023. The certification of the C919 jet could provide Nigerian airlines with access to newer and more efficient aircraft, potentially leading to further reductions in air travel costs.
The Nigerian government’s consideration of the C919 jet certification is a notable development in the country’s efforts to expand its aviation industry. As the process moves forward, it will be important to monitor the progress and any potential implications for the industry. With the global aviation market continuing to evolve, the certification of the C919 jet could have significant implications for airlines and passengers in Nigeria and beyond.