Overland Airways Reconnects Jalingo: Resumes Flights with State-of-the-Art Embraer E175

 

After a temporary suspension of services due to expansion work at Danbaba Suntai Airport, Overland Airways is set to resume its Abuja-Jalingo-Abuja route, reinstating vital connectivity for passengers in Nigeria's northeastern region. Effective April 3, 2025, the airline will operate three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, utilizing its brand-new Embraer E175 aircraft. The return of Overland Airways' services is expected to significantly enhance travel convenience, economic activity, and regional integration.

Overland Airways has long been a pioneer on the Jalingo route, providing consistent and reliable air travel options for years. The temporary suspension in November 2024 was necessary to facilitate expansion and upgrade works at Danbaba Suntai Airport, which aimed at improving passenger experience and accommodating larger aircraft. With the completion of these upgrades, the airline is now set to reconnect the three cities, providing passengers with improved travel options.

The reinstated flights are scheduled to depart Abuja at 10:00 AM, arriving in Jalingo shortly thereafter. The return flights will leave Jalingo at 11:30 AM, ensuring convenient travel times for passengers. Travelers from other cities within Overland Airways' network - including Lagos, Akure, Ibadan, Minna, and Ilorin - can seamlessly connect to Jalingo through the airline's hub in Abuja. The resumed operations will provide much-needed ease of access for business and leisure travelers, reinforcing the airline's role as a crucial link between Nigeria's hinterland and major urban centers.

Capt. Edward Boyo, Chief Executive Officer and Accountable Executive of Overland Airways, expressed enthusiasm about the resumption of services, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity. "We are excited to reintroduce our Lagos-Abuja-Jalingo services, which will not only enhance connectivity but also boost economic activities in Taraba State and the Northeastern region of Nigeria. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his unwavering support and commitment to the development of Danbaba Suntai Airport. We also thank our customers for their patience and understanding and assure them of our usual excellent customer services," Boyo stated.

The airline's decision to deploy its brand-new Embraer E175 aircraft on the Jalingo route marks a significant improvement in passenger experience. This dual-class, 88-seater jet features Premium class seats with spacious legroom and a comfortable Economy class, offering unparalleled convenience and comfort. This move aligns with Overland Airways' strategy of modernizing its fleet to provide a superior travel experience while maintaining operational efficiency. The Embraer E175 is known for its fuel efficiency, advanced avionics, and comfortable seating arrangement, making it an excellent choice for regional routes.

Overland Airways' service offerings have evolved from an all-turboprop fleet to a mixed fleet with the inclusion of modern jet aircraft. In September 2023, the airline received its first Embraer E175, marking a significant milestone in its expansion strategy. By August 2024, a second E175 had joined the fleet, with plans to acquire up to six of these jets to bolster regional connectivity. This fleet expansion not only enhances the airline’s capacity but also reinforces its long-term vision of providing top-tier aviation services across Nigeria and West Africa.

Reports has it that safety remains a cornerstone of Overland Airways' operations. In October 2024, the airline renewed its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification for the fifth consecutive time, reaffirming its position as a leading African carrier committed to the highest safety standards. The IOSA certification is a globally recognized safety standard that ensures compliance with best practices in airline operations. Overland Airways’ consistent renewal of this certification underscores its dedication to maintaining the highest levels of safety and operational excellence.

The resumption of flights to Jalingo is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, facilitating business travel, tourism, and investment in Taraba State. Enhanced air connectivity is a catalyst for economic growth, enabling easier movement of goods and people, and fostering regional integration. The improved accessibility will attract investors and tourists alike, contributing to the overall development of the region. For business travelers, the restored flight services mean reduced travel time, better scheduling flexibility, and a more efficient way to conduct business across different parts of Nigeria.

Founded in 2002, Overland Airways has been dedicated to increasing the prosperity of Nigeria's hinterland by providing reliable air transportation for businesspeople, investors, government officials, and residents. The airline operates a fleet that includes Embraer E175 jets, ATR-42s, ATR-72s, and Beechcraft 1900Ds, serving multiple destinations across Nigeria and West Africa. The airline’s commitment to connectivity has positioned it as a major player in Nigeria’s aviation industry, consistently delivering reliable air services to underserved regions.

As a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Overland Airways continues to play a pivotal role in the development of the aviation industry in Nigeria and the broader African continent. Membership in these organizations ensures adherence to global industry standards, continuous improvement, and access to international best practices. Overland Airways’ affiliation with these associations further solidifies its reputation as a world-class airline dedicated to delivering quality services.

The return of Overland Airways to the Abuja-Jalingo-Abuja route marks a significant milestone in the airline's commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and supporting economic development. With the introduction of the modern Embraer E175 aircraft, passengers can look forward to a new era of comfort and reliability in air travel to and from Jalingo. As air travel continues to be an essential component of regional development, Overland Airways’ strategic investments in fleet expansion and service improvements reaffirm its role as a key driver of growth in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

With improved airport infrastructure, increased flight capacity, and a commitment to excellence, Overland Airways is well-positioned to provide superior air travel experiences. The airline’s focus on safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of its operations. As passengers prepare to take to the skies once again on Overland Airways’ newly restored Jalingo route, they can expect seamless travel, enhanced comfort, and a renewed commitment to quality service delivery. The future of regional air travel in Nigeria looks brighter than ever, thanks to Overland Airways’ dedication to connecting people, businesses, and communities across the country.