Overland Airways, Nigeria’s longest-serving domestic airline, has successfully renewed its International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification for the fifth consecutive time. This achievement underscores the airline’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards and operational excellence in the aviation industry.
Key Takeaways
- Overland Airways has renewed its IOSA certification for the fifth time since first achieving it in 2015.
- The IOSA certification is a globally recognized safety benchmark for airlines, essential for African Union carriers.
- The airline has evolved its fleet, now including two new Embraer E175 jets.
- Direct flight services between Lagos and Abuja commenced in August 2024, enhancing service capacity.
IOSA Certification Overview
The IOSA certification is an internationally recognized safety benchmark for airlines worldwide. It is a requirement for airlines operating within the African Union and serves as a global standard for operational safety. Overland Airways first achieved this certification in 2015 and has successfully renewed it in the following years:
- 2015 – Initial Certification
- 2017 – First Renewal
- 2019 – Second Renewal
- 2021 – Third Renewal
- 2022 – Fourth Renewal
- 2024 – Fifth Renewal
The airline was audited across eight disciplines, ensuring compliance with the highest safety standards.
Commitment to Safety and Service
Capt. Edward Boyo, the Chief Executive Officer of Overland Airways, expressed pride in the renewal of the IOSA certification, stating, "The renewal of Overland Airways IOSA certification attests to our commitment to operate according to the best international standards."
He emphasized that this achievement validates the airline’s promise to provide safe, convenient, and comfortable flight services to its customers over the past 22 years.
Fleet Evolution
Overland Airways has made significant advancements in its fleet, transitioning from an all-turboprop fleet to a mixed fleet that now includes two brand-new Embraer E175 jets. This evolution reflects the airline’s strategic plan to enhance its service offerings and operational capacity.
Expanding Route Network
In line with its growth strategy, Overland Airways commenced direct flight services between Lagos and Abuja in August 2024. This new route aims to alleviate the capacity crunch experienced on this busy corridor, providing passengers with more convenient travel options.
Acknowledgments
Capt. Boyo acknowledged the dedication of the airline’s staff, stating that the rigorous audit process for IOSA certification would not have been possible without their commitment. He also extended gratitude to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for their invaluable support throughout the certification process.
In conclusion, Overland Airways’ successful renewal of its IOSA certification for the fifth consecutive time not only highlights its commitment to safety and operational excellence but also positions it as a leading airline in the African aviation sector.
Sources
- Overland Airways Renews IOSA Certification For 5th Consecutive Time – Aviation metric, Aviation Metric.
- Overland Airways renews IOSA certification – The Nation Newspaper, The Nation Newspaper.
- Overland Airways Renews IOSA Certification For 5th Consecutive Time, THEWILL NEWS.
- Overland Airways Retains IOSA Certification For fifth Consecutive Time – Independent Newspaper Nigeria, Independent Newspaper Nigeria.