Nigeria’s civil aviation regulator is considering certifying China’s C919 jet for use by domestic carriers, in a move that could open the door for Chinese aircraft in Africa’s largest aviation market.
- Nigeria may certify China’s C919 jet for domestic use in aviation.
- COMAC has initiated discussions with Nigeria for certification.
- The C919 jet faces challenges from Western benchmark certifications.
- Nigeria’s aviation sector has seen improvements in leasing and compliance.
Nigeria’s civil aviation regulator is considering certifying China’s C919 jet for use by domestic carriers, in a move that could open the door for Chinese aircraft in Africa’s largest aviation market.
Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, director-general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) said that the agency has begun examining the months-long certification process for the single-aisle jet, Reuters reported.
The C919, built by state-owned planemaker COMAC, is China’s answer to Airbus and Boeing’s narrow-body workhorses. COMAC has held several discussions with Nigerian officials as it seeks a foothold in Africa, but faces hurdles, including the absence of benchmark certifications from Western regulators and delays in meeting delivery targets.
Earlier this year, the U.S. temporarily halted exports of the CFM engines used on the C919 amid trade tensions.
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Maintenance and leasing offers
Najomo said COMAC had offered maintenance and training support to Nigerian operators and was exploring dry lease deals, arrangements in which airlines lease aircraft without a crew.
Nigeria’s improved Aviation Working Group rating, reflecting stronger compliance with the Cape Town Convention on aircraft leasing, is boosting lessor confidence and enabling the country’s 13 airlines to access newer planes.
Although flying remains costly for many Nigerians, average real airfares fell by 43.6% between 2011 and 2023, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
For now, the C919 is operated only by Chinese carriers. COMAC’s smaller C909 regional jet is flown by three airlines in Southeast Asia.
If Nigeria proceeds with certification, it could mark a significant step toward diversifying the country’s aviation fleet and deepening its ties with Beijing.
