In a significant development for Nigeria’s aviation industry, XEJet has launched an exclusive “all Business Class” flight between Abuja and Lagos, marking a first in the country’s domestic air travel market.
The inaugural flight, featuring the airline’s CRJ200 aircraft, took off from Abuja on Saturday after a celebratory ceremony and landed in Lagos, where another small ceremony was held. The flight marks a unique addition to Nigeria’s air travel options, offering passengers the choice of luxury and comfort on one of the busiest routes in the nation.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), praised XEJet’s new operations as a testament to the resilience and growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry. Keyamo, represented at the event by Mr. Hassan Ejibunu, the Director of Airworthiness at the Ministry of Aviation, said the airline’s launch symbolizes new opportunities for travelers and the industry alike.
“Today’s flight from Abuja to Lagos signifies more than just the beginning of a new airline; it is a testament to the strength and resilience of Nigerian aviation, as well as the new opportunities ahead,” Keyamo remarked.
He highlighted how each new route or service contributes to enhancing the nation’s air network, improving passenger convenience, and driving both tourism and business growth across Nigeria.
XEJet’s CRJ200 aircraft, outfitted entirely with Business Class seats, offers a unique experience for passengers, focusing on comfort, space, and top-tier service. The airline has invested in creating a more luxurious environment with wider seats and more spacious legroom, aiming to provide a premium experience for passengers traveling between Abuja and Lagos.
The Chief Executive Officer of XEJet, Mr. Emmanuel Iza, expressed his confidence in the airline’s commitment to comfort, safety, and luxury. He explained that the focus is not just on the size of the seats, but on delivering exceptional service and comfort to travelers.
“For us at XEJet, it is not about the seating size,” Iza stated. “It is about the safety, the comfort, luxury, and the kind of service that we provide. Whether it’s the big 22-inch seats on the CRJs that offer prime premium or the Embraer 145 with slightly narrower seats, our service stands out,” he added.
Looking to the future, XEJet has ambitious expansion plans. Iza revealed that the airline had recently acquired an Embraer E190 aircraft, which is currently undergoing inspections and is expected to begin operations on November 7. This aircraft will add more capacity to the airline’s offerings, potentially opening up new routes across Nigeria.
“Our vision is driven by numbers,” Iza explained, emphasizing the importance of demand in their business model. “If we see demand going to Maiduguri, we will follow. If we see numbers going to Benin, we will follow. For us, it’s about growth and service that meets the needs of Nigerian travelers.”
XEJet’s entry into the Nigerian market has been met with support from industry regulators, especially the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Sukh Mann, expressed gratitude for the smooth certification process with NCAA, which allowed XEJet to launch its unique service efficiently and in compliance with regulatory standards.
“The seamless certification process with NCAA has been crucial to bringing this vision to life,” Mann said. He commended the authority for their professionalism, saying that this positive working relationship helped facilitate XEJet’s entry into the market.
XEJet’s launch of an all Business Class flight comes as Nigeria’s aviation industry faces various challenges, from fluctuating fuel prices to the need for modern infrastructure. However, XEJet’s entry offers a glimpse of optimism and a push for higher service standards in Nigerian domestic air travel.
The airline’s model of prioritizing luxury and comfort could set a new trend in the Nigerian aviation industry. Many travelers have long complained about cramped seating and inconsistent service in local air travel, and XEJet’s exclusive service aims to cater to those seeking a more refined flying experience.
Industry experts and aviation analysts have also praised XEJet’s bold move, noting that the all Business Class service caters to a previously unmet demand in Nigeria’s aviation market. With business travel on the rise, particularly between Abuja and Lagos, XEJet’s premium service fills a niche that may encourage other airlines to consider similar upgrades.
“This is a refreshing shift for the Nigerian market,” said aviation analyst Olusegun Adedayo. “XEJet’s all Business Class service is a bold response to the needs of high-end travelers who value comfort, and it could raise the bar for other airlines.”
XEJet’s ambitious entry into the market marks a bold step forward for Nigerian aviation. As the airline embarks on this new journey, it aims to attract travelers who value comfort and luxury, offering them an option that goes beyond the standard economy experience.
With plans for expansion and a commitment to service quality, XEJet may inspire other players in the aviation sector to rethink their services. Nigeria’s aviation industry, often criticized for its challenges, could benefit from this new approach, with XEJet bringing renewed enthusiasm and innovation.
As XEJet begins regular flights on this unique all Business Class service, passengers between Abuja and Lagos now have the choice of flying in style. For those looking to avoid the hustle and discomfort of typical air travel, XEJet promises an experience tailored to comfort and class.
