KERRY EZARD/LONDON
Nigerian start-up Arik Air, which last week ordered two Bombardier CRJ900s for delivery next month, expects to receive its air operator’s certificate (AOC) at the end of June. The Lagos-based carrier plans to launch domestic operations in July, before expanding to include international routes.
BOMBARDIER
Arik also says it has leased two former United Airlines Boeing 737-300s and three used CRJ200s. These aircraft will also be delivered next month, but will need to be “overhauled and refurbished” before entering service.
Arik has moved into the former headquarters building of defunct Nigeria Airways in Lagos and is aiming to set “new, European[-style] safety standards that will change the face of the aviation industry in Nigeria”.
The carrier is poised to formally unveil its network, which will include flights to Abuja and Port Harcourt, as well as “at least seven” other destinations.
Source: Flight International
