Business News of Tuesday, 14 July 2026

Source: www.dailytrust.com

ValueJet to add Boeing aircraft, eyes regional expansion

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Nigerian carrier ValueJet has announced plans to introduce Boeing aircraft into its fleet as part of an expansion strategy aimed at increasing capacity and extending its network across Africa.

The airline said the acquisition marks the next phase of its growth, enabling it to serve more passengers, expand cargo operations and launch new regional and international routes.

Since commencing commercial operations with its fleet of Bombardier CRJ aircraft, ValueJet has operated domestic and regional services across Nigeria and West Africa.

The airline said the CRJ fleet has played a key role in building its operations and establishing its reputation for reliability and on-time performance.
According to the airline, the introduction of the Boeing 737 aircraft will provide greater passenger and cargo capacity while allowing it to operate longer routes and broaden its footprint across the continent.
As part of preparations for the fleet expansion, ValueJet said its aircraft maintenance engineers are undergoing specialised Boeing technical training in Lagos.

The programme, delivered by Boeing in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, covers maintenance of the Boeing 737 Next Generation (737NG) aircraft, including avionics, airframe, powerplant, electrical systems, maintenance procedures and safety standards in line with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) requirements.

Managing Director and Accountable Officer of ValueJet, Captain Omololu Majekodunmi, described the planned induction of the Boeing aircraft as a major milestone in the airline’s development.

He said the airline’s investment in technical training demonstrates its commitment to maintaining high safety and operational standards as it expands its fleet.

Chairman of ValueJet, Adekunle Soname, said the additional aircraft would support the airline’s long-term strategy of expanding its regional presence.
According to him, the Boeing aircraft will enhance the airline’s capacity and operational range, creating opportunities to connect more African cities while supporting trade, tourism and economic integration.

“The introduction of the Boeing aircraft is more than a fleet expansion; it is a strategic investment in the future of ValueJet. These aircraft will significantly enhance our capacity and range, enabling us to connect more African cities while supporting trade, tourism and economic integration across the continent,” Soname said.

The airline disclosed that the expansion plan includes new services to Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire, Libreville in Gabon and Douala in Cameroon, as well as future routes to Kenya, South Africa and other destinations across the continent.
ValueJet currently operates domestic services linking Lagos with Abuja, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Calabar, Kano, Jos, Benin City and Gateway International Airport, Iperu. It also serves regional destinations including Accra, Ghana, and Banjul, The Gambia.