Nigeria is taking a significant step toward diversifying its aviation fleet by exploring the certification of China’s COMAC C919 passenger jet. As the nation’s airlines seek to expand, Nigeria’s civil aviation authority is considering a months-long approval process to allow the narrow-body aircraft on domestic routes. This move aligns with warming relations with Beijing and COMAC’s ambition to use Nigeria as a strategic foothold for the African market. The Chinese manufacturer is actively courting Nigerian carriers by offering comprehensive maintenance support and exploring dry-lease arrangements to make the deal more attractive. While the C919 currently lacks validation from Western regulators, Nigerian officials are proceeding with their own evaluation. The jet is scheduled to be displayed at Nigeria’s inaugural international air show in December, signaling a serious courtship that could introduce a new competitor to the Airbus and Boeing duopoly in a key growth market.
Reuters
