Ekiti Airport Set to Begin Non-Scheduled Flights on December 15
The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti has received approval from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority to begin non-scheduled flight operations starting December 15, 2024.
The approval, which was granted for six months, allows operations under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) from December 15, 2024, to June 15, 2025. This permission follows a letter from the NCAA, dated December 11, 2024, addressed to Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
The approval allows the airport to host private jets and chartered flights during daylight hours, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The approval period will also allow the NCAA to validate pending findings from its recent inspection of the airport, while the state government works to address outstanding corrective actions.
As part of the approval conditions, the airport is required to coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure the provision of essential services, including air traffic control, fire fighting services, security, and meteorological support.
Governor Oyebanji expressed his satisfaction with the NCAA’s decision, describing it as a significant milestone for the state. He highlighted that the approval validates the state’s investment in the airport and its potential to drive Ekiti’s socioeconomic development by improving accessibility. The approval also aligns with the state’s commitment to making the airport operational before the end of the year, as previously promised by the governor.
In preparation for full commercial operations, the state government had already signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Service Level Agreements with federal aviation agencies. The NCAA’s approval marks the beginning of the airport’s operational journey, with plans for further developments as the state works towards securing final approval for commercial flight services.
