Binani Air Launches Abuja-Kano-Yola Operations, Passengers Praise Timely Service and Affordable Fares

Nigeria’s newest carrier, Binani Air, has officially commenced commercial operations with its inaugural flight from Abuja to Kano, extending onward to Yola, as passengers and airline officials expressed optimism about the airline’s entry into the country’s competitive aviation sector.

Group President and CEO Binani Group, Aminatu Dahiru Chiroma with Head of Communication, Ms. Arit Effanga

Speaking during the maiden flight operations in Abuja, the airline’s Abuja Station Manager, Abubakar Aminu, said the company was focused on punctuality, consistency, customer service, and safety as core pillars of its operations.

According to him, the airline recorded an encouraging passenger turnout on its first day of operation, with over half of the passengers already checked in ahead of departure.

“In aviation, we sell time and consistency,” Aminu said. “We have already started checking in passengers for the Kano flight and we are determined to remain on schedule. We want our passengers to know that Binani Air is here to deliver excellent customer service, consistency, and safety.”

He also dismissed concerns over pilot shortages in the aviation industry, explaining that the airline had a combination of expatriate and local pilots to ensure smooth operations.
“We are fully covered in terms of pilots. We have both expatriates and in-house pilots, so we do not have any challenge,” he added.

Also speaking, the airline’s Head of Crew, Isa Maina Yamka, described the inaugural flight as a historic moment for the company, saying years of planning and preparation had finally materialised.

“This is the happiest moment for us in Binani Air. We have worked towards this day for a long time and we are proud that the dream has become reality,” Yamka said.

He noted that the airline had prioritised staff training and operational safety, adding that all crew members were professionally trained in line with aviation standards.

“Everything we do is centred on safety. All our crew and staff are trained according to operational requirements, and we are fully prepared for safe operations,” he said.
Yamka disclosed that the airline’s economy fares currently start from ₦90,000, while premium class tickets go for about ₦200,000, depending on passenger preference.

Passengers onboard the inaugural flight also shared positive reviews about the airline’s services, particularly its punctuality, affordability, and customer relations.

One of the first passengers to board the maiden Abuja-Kano flight, Associate Professor Aisha Aminu of the Dangote Business School, Bayero University Kano, said she had high expectations for the airline despite the highly competitive nature of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
She commended the airline’s customer service, check-in process, luggage handling, and timely departure.

“The service from check-in to boarding was excellent and timely. These are qualities expected from any serious aviation firm,” she said.

On pricing, Aminu described the fares as fair and competitive, noting that the airline’s introductory pricing strategy could attract more passengers if the quality of service is sustained.

Another passenger, Jibrin Yusuf Umar, praised the smooth coordination of the inaugural flight.

“Everything was quite all right and nice. There was no delay and I really enjoyed the experience. The pricing is also very okay,” he said.

Similarly, Ephraim Aboubakar, another passenger on the flight, described the journey as pleasant and comfortable.

“It was my first time flying with Binani Air and it was a very pleasant experience,” he said.

The airline’s Head of Communications, Ms. Arit Effanga, described the launch as the fulfilment of a long-term vision and a significant contribution to Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“This is a vision of many years that has become reality. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the development of Nigerian aviation, and we assure passengers that Binani Air is here to stay,” she stated.