By Gabriel Ameh
Nigeria’s newest airline, Binani Air, has officially commenced commercial flight operations with its inaugural Abuja-Kano-Yola route, drawing commendation from passengers over its punctuality, affordable fares, and customer service.
Speaking during the maiden flight in Abuja, the airline’s Abuja Station Manager, Abubakar Aminu, said the carrier was committed to maintaining punctuality, operational consistency, safety, and excellent customer experience as the foundation of its services.
According to him, the airline recorded an impressive passenger turnout on its first day of operations, with many travellers checking in ahead of departure.
“In aviation, we sell time and consistency,” Aminu stated. “We are determined to remain on schedule and ensure passengers enjoy excellent customer service, consistency, and safety throughout their journey.”
He also dismissed concerns surrounding pilot shortages in the aviation sector, noting that the airline had assembled both expatriate and local pilots to guarantee seamless operations.
“We are fully covered in terms of pilots. We have expatriate and in-house pilots, so there is no challenge in that regard,” he added.
Also speaking, the airline’s Head of Crew, Isa Maina Yamka, described the inaugural flight as a major milestone after years of preparation and planning.
“This is one of the happiest moments for us at Binani Air. We have worked towards this for years and we are proud that the vision has finally become reality,” Yamka said.
He explained that the airline had prioritised safety and professional training for all operational staff and crew members in line with aviation standards.
“Everything we do is centred on safety. Our crew and staff are professionally trained according to operational requirements, and we are fully prepared for safe operations,” he noted.
Yamka disclosed that economy class fares currently start from ₦90,000, while premium class tickets cost about ₦200,000 depending on passenger preferences.
Passengers onboard the inaugural flight also praised the airline for its smooth operations, affordability, and timely departure.
One of the passengers on the maiden Abuja-Kano flight, Aisha Aminu of the Dangote Business School, Bayero University Kano, commended the airline’s customer relations, check-in procedures, luggage handling, and punctuality.
“The service from check-in to boarding was excellent and timely. These are qualities expected from any serious airline,” she said.
Another passenger, Jibrin Yusuf Umar, described the experience as seamless and enjoyable.
“Everything was well coordinated and there was no delay. I really enjoyed the experience and the pricing is very reasonable,” he said.
Similarly, Ephraim Aboubakar described the journey as comfortable and pleasant.
“It was my first time flying with Binani Air and it was a very pleasant experience,” he noted.
The airline’s Head of Communications, Arit Effanga, described the launch as the fulfilment of a long-standing vision aimed at contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“This vision has finally become reality. We are excited to contribute to the development of Nigerian aviation and we assure passengers that Binani Air is here to stay,” she said.
