The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has granted Rocket Aviation an Air Operator Certificate to begin non-scheduled flight operations after meeting all safety and regulatory requirements in Abuja
NCAA Issues Air Operator Certificate to Rocket Aviation for Non-Scheduled Flights
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has granted an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Rocket Aviation, clearing the company to commence non-scheduled flight operations in Nigeria after successfully meeting all regulatory, safety, and operational requirements.
The certificate was formally presented on June 23, 2026, at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja. Speaking at the ceremony, the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, congratulated the company on the achievement, describing it as a major milestone in its entry into Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Capt. Najomo stressed that the issuance of the Air Operator Certificate marked only the beginning of Rocket Aviation’s regulatory obligations, noting that sustained compliance with safety standards remains essential for continued approval to operate. He urged the airline to maintain a strong safety culture anchored on strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures, effective Crew Resource Management, timely reporting of safety concerns, and continuous cooperation among flight crew members.
He also commended both Rocket Aviation and the NCAA certification team for their dedication throughout the nearly two-year certification process, explaining that rigorous inspections, assessments, and oversight are vital components of ensuring accountability and enhancing safety in Nigeria’s airspace.
Responding on behalf of Rocket Aviation, Accounts Manager Mrs. Bisola Yejide expressed appreciation to the NCAA leadership under Capt. Najomo and the certification team for their professionalism and guidance throughout the process. She assured that the company would uphold the safety standards that earned it certification, pledging commitment to operational excellence, strict compliance, and continuous improvement across its operations.
The approval places Rocket Aviation among operators authorised to conduct non-scheduled flight services in Nigeria, marking a significant step in the expansion of the country’s regulated aviation landscape and reinforcing ongoing efforts by the NCAA to strengthen safety oversight and industry standards.
