BY MERCY ODEH (Content Editor)
LAGOS, NIGERIA — Nigerian carrier ValueJet has announced plans to introduce Boeing 737 aircraft into its fleet as part of a major expansion strategy aimed at increasing capacity and extending its domestic, regional and international operations across Africa.
The airline said the fleet expansion marks a significant milestone in its growth, building on its existing operations with Bombardier CRJ aircraft, which have supported its domestic and West African services since the airline commenced commercial operations.
According to ValueJet, the Boeing 737 aircraft will enable it to transport more passengers and cargo, operate longer routes and support its ambitious network expansion across the continent.
As part of preparations for the induction of the aircraft, the airline disclosed that its maintenance engineers are undergoing intensive Boeing technical training in Lagos.
The programme, delivered by Boeing in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, covers the Boeing 737 Next Generation (737NG) aircraft, including avionics, airframe, powerplant, electrical systems, maintenance procedures, safety protocols and operational best practices aligned with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards.
Managing Director and Accountable Officer of ValueJet, Capt. Omololu Majekodunmi, described the planned induction of the Boeing aircraft as a defining moment in the airline’s development.
He said the airline had remained committed to building a safe, reliable and customer-focused operation with its CRJ fleet, adding that the introduction of the Boeing aircraft would strengthen its operational capabilities while investments in technical training would ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability.
According to him, the expansion positions the airline for its next phase of growth while enhancing the travel experience for passengers.
Also commenting, Chairman of ValueJet, Adekunle Soname, said the acquisition of the Boeing aircraft represents a strategic investment that would strengthen the airline’s regional expansion plans.
He noted that the aircraft would significantly improve ValueJet’s capacity and operational range, allowing it to connect more African cities while promoting trade, tourism and economic integration across the continent.
The airline said it plans to launch new international and regional services to Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire, Libreville in Gabon, Douala in Cameroon, as well as destinations in Kenya and South Africa. The new routes will be operated with the Boeing aircraft as part of its long-term strategy to improve connectivity across Africa.
ValueJet currently operates domestic services linking Lagos with Abuja, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Calabar, Kano, Jos, Benin City and Gateway International Airport, Iperu. Its regional network also includes Accra, Ghana, and Banjul, The Gambia.
The airline said the expansion underscores its ambition to become one of Africa’s leading regional carriers while contributing to the growth of tourism, trade and investment across the continent.
