NIGERIA is intensifying efforts to regain its United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Category 1 safety status, with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) fully prepared for an upcoming reassessment by the American aviation regulator. This commitment was expressed by Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, during a meeting with FAA officials on July 29, 2026, following discussions about Air Peace Limited’s proposed direct flights to New York.
Capt. Najomo requested technical assistance from the FAA to bolster Nigeria’s readiness. The FAA responded positively, indicating willingness to assist.
Category 1 status, granted under the IASA programme, signifies compliance with ICAO standards, allowing direct commercial services to the U.S.
Nigeria lost this status after a hiatus in scheduled services. Recent improvements in international aviation safety ratings may strengthen Nigeria’s case for regaining this status, facilitating Air Peace’s planned flights and enhancing U.S. connectivity.