UMZA Air has described its inaugural Abuja-Ilorin and Ilorin-Abuja flights as "a flawless take-off" for the airline's newest regional route, following the commencement of operations on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

The Managing Director of UMZA Aviation Services Limited, Anachuna Henry, in an exclusive interview with Arewa PUNCH, said the maiden operations recorded full passenger loads.

The inaugural Abuja-Ilorin flight carried notable dignitaries, including:

The Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Elder Kayode Alabi.

A former governor of the state, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed.

Henry said the airline was encouraged by the smooth execution of the flights, describing both legs as a testament to UMZA Air's operational readiness and commitment to service excellence.

"We are extremely satisfied with the execution of our inaugural Abuja-Ilorin and Ilorin-Abuja flights. Everything went according to plan — from passenger processing to on-time departure and arrival," he stated.

The introduction of UMZA Air and the soon-to-start United Nigeria Airlines is expected to introduce competition and lower airfares on the Ilorin route, which was previously served mainly by Overland Airways.

"The aircraft was fully booked, and we were honoured to have the Deputy Governor and former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed flying with us on this historic service."

Henry said early feedback from passengers highlighted punctuality, comfort, and quality of inflight service as key strengths.

According to him, travellers expressed pleasure at the timely departure of both flights and the professionalism displayed by the airline's cabin and ground crews.

"We received overwhelmingly positive responses from passengers. They were impressed by our punctuality and the comfort of our aircraft. Many people told us this is the kind of service they have been expecting in the Abuja-Ilorin corridor," he said.

The UMZA Air boss also commended the warm reception the airline received in Ilorin, noting that aviation stakeholders, airport workers, and residents trooped out to witness the arrival of the first flight.

He described the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, as one of the cleanest in the country, said the enthusiasm further demonstrated the route's viability and the readiness of the Kwara market to embrace improved air travel options.

"Ilorin welcomed us warmly. Stakeholders and members of the public were visibly excited. It affirmed that this is a route that truly matters to people," Henry stated.

On sustaining its promise of permanently cheaper fares, Henry assured that the airline has developed an efficiency-driven operational model that reduces unnecessary costs while maintaining global safety standards.

He said UMZA Air is committed to keeping ticket prices affordable for travellers despite rising costs across the sector.

"We stand by our promise of affordable fares. Our business model is structured to ensure operational efficiency without compromising safety or service standards. Nigerians deserve reliable and affordable air travel," he said.

Henry added that with the launch now successful, passengers in Kwara and neighbouring states should expect route expansion, increased flight frequencies, and wider connectivity as the airline strengthens its domestic network.

"Ilorin is only the beginning. We are already reviewing possibilities of expanding to more destinations, increasing frequency on this route, and introducing value-added services that make travel easier for our passengers," he said.