AFG Aviation Ireland Limited, a global leader in commercial aircraft leasing and asset management, has successfully leased two Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets to Cally Air, the state-backed airline of Cross River State, Nigeria. This development marks a strategic milestone for both AFG Aviation’s growing footprint in Africa and Cally Air’s fleet expansion plans.
The aircraft, carrying Manufacturer Serial Numbers 19004 and 19009, were acquired by AFG from Regional One and placed with Cally Air under a finance lease agreement.
In a complementary arrangement, ValueJet—operating under its Air Operator Certificate—will manage and operate the jets on behalf of Cally Air, ensuring seamless integration into the airline’s operations.
In a statement, Christian Nuehlen, Founder and CEO of AFG Aviation, said:
“These modern, fuel-efficient regional jets are key assets that will help Cally Air strengthen domestic connectivity and open up new regional routes across West Africa.
This agreement is a testament to AFG’s ability to connect global capital with local ambition.”
Christian Hatje, Senior Vice President of Commercial at AFG Aviation, added that the collaboration reflects the company’s confidence in Africa’s dynamic aviation market and its growth potential.
AFG Aviation has a proven track record in structuring complex transactions and delivering aircraft efficiently, making it a trusted partner for airlines and investors seeking expansion in high-potential regions.
The lease deal underscores AFG’s commitment to supporting the development of the African aviation sector while enabling Cally Air to become a leading regional carrier.
The Bombardier CRJ1000 jets are designed for fuel efficiency and operational reliability, making them ideal for regional travel.
For Cally Air, the addition of these aircraft will expand its network within Nigeria and across West African destinations, boosting trade, tourism, and economic development in Cross River State and surrounding regions.
The aircraft lease comes weeks after the Akwa Ibom government, co-owners of Cally Air, announced the purchase of the two jets and handed them over to ValueJet in partnership with the airline.
Under the sublease arrangement, ValueJet will oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while optimizing route efficiency.
The delivery ceremony, attended by Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State alongside government functionaries and aviation stakeholders, emphasized the strategic importance of this fleet expansion.
Officials noted that the aircraft acquisition aligns with broader government objectives to modernize the aviation sector, improve domestic air travel, and stimulate local economies through enhanced connectivity.
Industry experts say this development could set a precedent for other state-backed carriers seeking to expand operations through partnerships with global leasing companies.
With Africa’s aviation sector growing steadily, such collaborations demonstrate how international financing and local ambition can combine to accelerate fleet modernization.
Cally Air’s newly leased jets are expected to commence operations in the coming months, strengthening domestic routes and opening new corridors to regional markets.
This milestone illustrates the growing confidence of global investors in Nigeria’s aviation industry and highlights the potential for sustainable growth in West Africa’s air transport sector.
As AFG Aviation continues to leverage its expertise in aircraft leasing and asset management, the partnership with Cally Air signals a new era of enhanced regional mobility, economic development, and tourism growth in Nigeria.