Lagos, Nigeria: Elin Air, a Nigerian aviation company led by the visionary Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich, has achieved a historic milestone in Africa’s aviation sector by completing a major maintenance check on a Bombardier Challenger CL604 aircraft entirely within Nigeria. This maintenance, known as the 7,800 landings check, is one of the most comprehensive inspections an aircraft can undergo, and Elin Air’s accomplishment marks the first time such a high-level procedure has been successfully performed on the continent.
Traditionally, these extensive inspections were conducted in specialized foreign facilities, often requiring airlines to send aircraft abroad, incurring significant costs and logistical challenges. Elin Air’s success demonstrates that Nigeria now possesses the technical expertise, skilled workforce, and infrastructure to execute complex aviation tasks domestically, signaling a new era for African aviation.
The 7,800 landings check involves an exhaustive process where the aircraft undergoes complete disassembly, inspection, overhaul, and reassembly of its major systems and structural components. Completing this task typically demands over 6,000 man-hours, reflecting the enormous technical and logistical effort involved. That Elin Air accomplished this entirely in Nigeria is a testament to the capability of local engineers and aviation professionals.
Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich emphasized that this achievement is more than just a technical feat. She sees it as proof of Nigeria’s potential to deliver world-class aviation services and an opportunity to position the country as a respected player on the global aviation stage. Under her leadership, Elin Air is committed to nurturing skilled professionals and setting new standards in aviation maintenance and operational excellence.
Looking ahead, Elin Air plans to continue this groundbreaking work, with another major aircraft maintenance project scheduled for November 2025.
