Start-Ups Green Africa receives first ATR 72-600 aircraft

As first of three aircraft, Start-Up airline Green Africa has taken delivery of an ATR 72-600 turboprop. The aircraft are on lease from ACIA Aero Leasing and will help the African carrier to start regional operations in the country and abroad.

In presence of the airline founder and CEO Babawande Afolabi and several other officials, the aircraft was handed over at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport. Green Africa wants to start operations as soon as possible.

Babawande Afolabi, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Green Africa, commented: “This is a great day for all of us at Green Africa and the beginning of what we all hope is a new era in Nigerian aviation. ACIA Aero Leasing has been a very supportive partner and we are proud of this new relationship. The arrival of our first aircraft is a precursor to the completion of our AOC process and very soon, customers from across Nigeria will be able to make bookings on our website and take their first flight with Green Africa.”

Mick Mooney, Chief Executive Officer of ACIA Aero Leasing added: “Whilst the industry is going through a period of significant disruption, there are a few carriers with a strategic roadmap, such as Green Africa, that are looking to provide effective solutions that the current market opportunity brings. We at ACIA are pleased to provide Green Africa with the first set of aircraft to launch its commercial operations, starting with Nigeria and eventually, the broader African continent.”

Recently, Green Africa unveiled the livery of the first two aircraft, which have been wrapped in the Green Africa livery. The third aircraft to join the fleet has now received its livery as well, as the airline is working towards the final lap of the AOC process.

One the AOC certificate has been issued by the aviation authorities in the country, Green Africa is allowed to perform passenger transport services. As stated, the airline seeks to first serve regional destinations within Nigeria and wants to expand afterwards.

Back in February of last year, Green Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding with European aircraft manufacturer Airbus over 50 Airbus A220-300 aircraft. It has been the largest MOU signed by an African airline.

The airline however has to firm up this order and the ATR 72s could be the steppingstone for successful initial flights. For 6 years now, Green Africa has been working towards its start of operations.