Binani Air has received its Air Operator Certificate from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) making it Nigeria’s first fully female-owned and female-led airline.
This represents a historic milestone for Nigeria’s aviation sector and the entry of a powerful new player into the domestic market.
The Binani Air AOC Nigeria female-owned airline certification arrives as the country’s aviation sector undergoes its most significant expansion in a decade.
Millions of Nigerian girls now have a living symbol of what female ambition can achieve in one of the world’s most demanding industries.
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Background
Binani Air is owned by Senator Aishatu Binani, the richest woman in Adamawa State and the North East region of Nigeria. She also owns the largest printing press in Northern Nigeria.
Binani Air also has a female Chief Executive; Aminatu Dahiru Chiroma.
This makes it the first airline in Nigerian history with both a female owner and a female chief executive.
Airline official Chukwudi Iwuchukwu said:
“It is the first airline in our country with a female owner and a female CEO, a representation to the girl child that her dreams matter.”
Binani Air is the first woman to float an airline in Northern Nigeria and also the first woman to secure an AOC for scheduled operations in Nigeria.
Breakthrough
NCAA Director-General Captain Chris Najomo described the Binani Air AOC certification as a historic milestone and a significant breakthrough marking the emergence of a female-led airline in a sector long dominated by men.
He praised Senator Binani and her management team for their persistence throughout the rigorous certification process, stressing their determination and consistency in addressing every requirement and obstacle until the certification was finally achieved.
Moreover, Najomo had a word of caution.
“The issuance of the AOC marks only the beginning of a more demanding operational phase. The airline must prioritise meticulous planning, professionalism, and strict adherence to safety and operational standards. There is no room for shortcuts in the aviation industry.”
Milestone
Senator Aishatu Binani expressed appreciation to the NCAA for its guidance, professionalism, and support throughout the certification process, describing the journey as both challenging and rewarding.
She acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, whose commitment to creating an enabling environment played a crucial role in the airline’s successful certification.
Additionally, Binani Air official Iwuchukwu confirmed one of the airline’s Embraer E170 aircraft had already completed a successful test flight ahead of the AOC ceremony demonstrating full operational readiness.
Where Binani Air Will Fly After AOC Certification
Binani Air will launch scheduled commercial operations on initial routes covering Anambra, Lagos, Kano, Maiduguri, and Port Harcourt.
The airline will also serve Bauchi and Gombe filling a critical connectivity gap for the North East geopolitical zone, which has historically been underserved by domestic carriers.
Additionally, Binani Air is made up of 80% shareholders’ investment creating a record of value addition in attracting Foreign Direct Investment for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Therefore, the Binani Air AOC Nigeria female-owned airline certification is not merely a gender milestone.
It is a structural boost for aviation connectivity across Nigeria’s most underserved region.
