Overland Airways (OF, Lagos) has taken delivery of the first of three new E175LRs, signalling a strategic shift from its predominantly turboprop fleet. The move is part of the airline's expansion plans, aimed at increasing its domestic capacity and regional growth, according to Managing Director Edward Boyo.
"We now have very flexible options to grow our fleet and capacity to meet all future demand," he said in a statement.
The newbuild 88-seat aircraft, PR-ECJ (msn 17000938), has yet to be added to the Nigerian register. Overland Airways, a 20-year-old West African carrier affiliated with the Landover Aviation Services Company, also holds options for three more of the type.
Overland Airways currently operates scheduled and charter services primarily with a fleet of ATR - Avions de Transport Régional aircraft, including an ATR42-300(QC), three ATR42-320s, and one ATR72-200, according to the ch-aviation fleets module. Routes served include Lagos, Abuja, Akure, Ibadan, and Ilorin, ch-aviation schedules data shows.
In tandem with the arrival of the new E-jets, Overland Airways is expanding its footprint in Nigeria, having recently opened a new corporate office and hangar facilities in Lagos. The airline holds Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO) certification from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
"The delivery of Overland's first new E175 marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the airline and Embraer. Nigeria represents one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world; Overland and Embraer are committed to the support of its continued success with a product line perfectly suited to build connectivity across West Africa," said Stephan Hannemann, Embraer Commercial Aviation Head of Africa & Middle East Region.
Landover Aviation Services operates the Landover Aviation Business School specialising in airline technical and operations, aviation management, and travel and tourism.
