Nigeria’s business aviation sector has received a boost as Falcon Aerospace Limited, operating under the brand name VivaJets, has been awarded an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). This crucial certification marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy and signals more options for travelers within Nigeria’s aviation market.
An AOC is a critical regulatory approval that authorizes an airline or charter service to operate commercial flights. It is a key indicator of compliance with aviation safety and operational standards.
Chukwuerika Achum, CEO of VivaJets, expressed excitement about the achievement, stating, “We are proud to announce that in January 2025, we received the AOC from the NCAA — a landmark step in our mission to become Africa’s leading and most efficient business aviation provider.”
Achum emphasized that the certification reinforces VivaJets’ capacity to deliver seamless and accessible business aviation services across the continent. “This endorsement from our home country further strengthens our ability to connect businesses efficiently across Africa through reliable and secure air travel.”
The award of the AOC comes as VivaJets undergoes a phase of rapid international expansion and technological innovation. The company provides a range of premium services including aircraft management, fractional ownership, and private jet charter options, aiming to democratize access to business aviation.
Tejumade Salami, Chief Operating Officer of VivaJets, highlighted the company’s global footprint; “We are growing quickly on the international scene with operations extending to North America, Europe, and the Middle East, alongside our newly established office in Canada. We have also participated in major global events such as the World Economic Forum (WEF), Africa CEO Forum (ACF), Africa Air Forces Summit, Invest in Africa Summit, and African Investment Summit (AFIS).”
Salami also noted VivaJets’ commitment to leveraging technology to improve service accessibility, “We’ve built digital platforms that streamline access to business aviation, making our services more affordable and efficient. Now, with the AOC, we plan to expand our fleet and routes globally, while pursuing strategic partnerships and investments to fuel this growth.”
The certification comes amid a 15% surge in private aviation activity across Africa, driven by rising demand from business executives seeking fast, convenient, and secure travel solutions. Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya are leading this trend as growing hubs for private jet operations.
Mark Adoga, Head of Flight Operations at VivaJets, emphasized the company’s focus on meeting this increasing demand; “We are committed to offering seamless and efficient charter services that prioritize safety, luxury, and operational excellence. Our clients enjoy premium services that combine convenience with high standards of aviation safety.”
As private aviation gains traction in Africa, VivaJets aims to remain at the forefront of this revolution, providing innovative and customer-focused solutions that align with modern business needs.
