Latest news with #VivaJets
Zawya
12-08-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Viva Jets Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 as Gold Partner Amid Fleet Expansion in Africa
Viva Jets, Nigeria's premier business aviation company and subsidiary of Falcon Aerospace Limited, will participate as a Gold Partner at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025. Held from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, the event is the largest of its kind in Africa and takes place under a mandate to make energy poverty history. Viva Jets' participation is set to foster new partnerships as the continent strives to bolter inter-connectivity. Viva Jets is implementing a bold expansion strategy in Africa. The company plans to add three Bombardier Challenger 604 aircraft to its fleet in 2025. The acquisition, backed by $25 million in debt financing, aims to meet the rising demand for luxury private jet charter services across Nigeria and the wider African region. The company currently operates one Challenger 604, inducted in April 2024, alongside a Gulfstream G550 and a Hawker 900XP. Viva Jets secured its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority in January 2025, enabling the company to operate commercially within Nigeria and beyond. The company is headquartered in Lagos and emphasizes delivering seamless luxury experiences, including flexible options like empty-leg flights. Further strengthening its regional ambitions, Viva Jets' parent company Falcon Aerospace Limited recently partnered with Flybird Aircraft Management Services to establish OrientJets, an Aruba-based joint venture currently in the process of obtaining its own AOC. This partnership reflects a broader strategy to expand operational reach and tap into new markets. As a Gold Partner at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Viva Jets is well-positioned to engage with investors, government representatives and industry leaders to highlight the strategic role of private aviation in supporting Africa's economic growth, regional connectivity and intra-continental trade. The company's participation underscores its commitment to fostering the development of Africa's aviation ecosystem and providing premium travel solutions aligned with the continent's growth trajectory. 'Viva Jets exemplifies the dynamic growth and innovation occurring within Africa's aviation sector. Their expansion and strategic partnership highlight the critical role private aviation plays in driving regional connectivity, business development and economic integration across the continent,' states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber. About AEW: Invest in African Energies: AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit for more information about this exciting event.
Zawya
04-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Nigeria's VivaJets Receives Air Operator Certificate, Advocates Free Aviation in Africa
Frontline Nigerian business aviation firm, VivaJets, has received its Air Operating Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), amidst a rapid global expansion in the last two years and advocacy for the reduction of continental barriers to air travel. According to CEO, Erika Achum, having an African AOC gives the firm commercial rights into the 34 countries which have ratified the Yamoussoukro decision, a precursor to the Single African Air Transport Market, (SAATM). "Our story illustrates the transformative power of business aviation in improving connectivity and innovation across Africa. We believe that Africa's prosperity lies in connectivity within and with the continent," said Achum. Since inception two years ago, VivaJets has participated in several international events, where the firm has advocated for free aviation across Africa. At the 2025 Africa CEO Forum (ACF) in Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire, Achum issued a clarion call for the urgent dismantling of long-standing barriers to air travel within the continent, emphasizing that aviation is a key driver of economic integration and growth on the continent. 'Our skies are still segmented by outdated agreements and policies,' he said. 'What Africa needs is a unified, modern aviation strategy that prioritizes accessibility, innovation, and collaboration.' 'We are a continent of over 1.4 billion people, with growing cities, industries, and innovation hubs. If we get aviation right, we unlock a future where Africans can move, trade, and connect freely; and that future is within reach,' he added. VivaJets has had a remarkable growth over the last two years, with an expanded fleet, global routes, and a rapidly growing team, whilst showcasing a unique cabin crew outfit created by iconic fashion designer, Loza Maleombho at the Lagos Fashion Week last November 2024. In April 2025, the firm unveiled Above, a travel magazine. According to Chief Operating Officer, Tejumade Salami, the company's journey has been built on the shoulders of an extraordinary team. 'We have been blessed by the most dedicated and creative team, and as we look to the future, we are committed to scaling even greater heights — delivering excellence, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of private aviation in Africa," she said. 'Finally, with the award of its AOC and the unveiling of ABOVE magazine, Falcon Aerospace continues to prove its position as a forward-thinking leader in Africa's private aviation sector, bringing in new levels of connectivity, innovation, and cultural pride,' she added. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Falcon Aerospace Limited. About VivaJets: A brand under Falcon Aerospace Limited, VivaJets provides aircraft charter, management, sales and acquisition services with a focus on innovation and accessibility. In just two years, VivaJets has grown from a visionary start-up with no fleet and no operating license into a fully licensed aviation company with expanding global routes, international collaborations, and pioneering innovations. Alongside VivaJets, Falcon Aero is the brand owner of digital aviation platforms, FlyPJX and CharterXE, and tech and business incubation firms, Instig Labs and The Adrenalina.
