In a move underscoring growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector, AFG Aviation Ireland Limited has confirmed the successful lease placement of two Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets with Cally Air, the Cross River State–backed carrier.
The aircraft, bearing Manufacturer Serial Numbers 19004 and 19009, were acquired by AFG from Regional One and subsequently transferred to Cally Air under a finance lease structure. Industry observers note that the transaction reflects AFG’s increasing interest in African aviation markets, where rising passenger demand and government-backed carriers are driving fleet expansion.
While ownership rests with Cally Air, operations of the two jets have been subleased to ValueJet, which will manage day-to-day functions under its existing Air Operator Certificate. The model allows Cally Air to expand its fleet capacity without immediately assuming the full operational burden of certification, staffing, and regulatory compliance.
AFG Aviation CEO, Christian Nuehlen, described the deal as a “strategic milestone,” highlighting the role of structured leasing in unlocking fleet growth for emerging carriers. “These modern, fuel-efficient regional jets are key assets that will help Cally Air strengthen domestic connectivity and open new regional routes across West Africa,” Nuehlen said. “This agreement is a testament to AFG’s ability to connect global capital with local ambition.”
The lease also reflects AFG’s broader strategy of targeting high-potential markets where demand for flexible financing and modern aircraft is accelerating. Senior Vice President of Commercial at AFG, Christian Hatje, stressed that the collaboration demonstrates the firm’s confidence in Africa’s aviation growth story: “Our partnership with Cally Air reflects our long-standing belief in the opportunities this dynamic continent has to offer.”
Analysts point out that the CRJ1000, with its 100-seat configuration and fuel efficiency, is well-suited for Nigeria’s short- to medium-haul routes. For Cally Air, the deal provides a cost-effective path to scale operations and build market presence, while Cross River State leverages aviation as a driver of trade, tourism, and economic diversification.
With this transaction, AFG reinforces its position as a global lessor capable of structuring complex cross-border agreements, while Cally Air strengthens its ambition of evolving into a competitive regional carrier in West Africa’s fast-growing aviation landscape.
