Elin Air and Aviation Services has achieved a groundbreaking feat in Nigeria’s aviation sector by successfully completing a 7,800-landing maintenance check, akin to a “D check” for commercial airlines, on a Bombardier Challenger CL604 aircraft. This complex procedure, typically conducted abroad, involves a meticulous and comprehensive inspection, overhaul, and reassembly of major aircraft systems and structures, often demanding over 6,000 man-hours. The accomplishment marks a significant milestone, not only for Elin Air but also for Nigeria’s burgeoning maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities. It underscores the country’s growing aviation expertise and its potential to become a hub for aircraft maintenance in the region. The completion of this check within Nigeria represents a significant cost-saving measure for aircraft operators, reducing the need for expensive overseas maintenance and bolstering the local economy.
The project, executed between April and June 2025 at Elin Air’s hangar facility, involved a highly skilled, all-Nigerian team. This further highlights the company’s dedication to fostering local talent and promoting indigenous technical capacity within the aviation industry. The successful completion of the check not only validates the team’s expertise but also instills confidence in the quality of Nigerian engineering and maintenance services. By choosing to conduct the maintenance in-house, Elin Air has demonstrated its commitment to investing in local infrastructure and expertise, paving the way for future complex maintenance procedures to be undertaken within the country. This decision reinforces the company’s belief in Nigerian capabilities and its vision for a self-sufficient aviation sector.
The 7,800-landing check, being one of the most thorough inspections an aircraft undergoes throughout its operational life, involved the dismantling, inspection, servicing, and reassembly of critical components such as the engines, thrust reversers, auxiliary power unit (APU), fuel tanks, and flight control systems. This meticulous approach ensured the aircraft’s continued airworthiness and compliance with international safety standards. The comprehensive nature of the check leaves no room for compromise, requiring meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to established procedures. The successful completion of this check stands as a testament to Elin Air’s meticulous planning and execution, demonstrating their ability to handle complex aerospace maintenance tasks.
Beyond the essential maintenance procedures, Elin Air took the opportunity to enhance the aircraft’s cabin, refurbishing it to reflect contemporary standards of luxury and comfort, thus optimizing its suitability for premium operations. This added step demonstrates Elin Air’s commitment to providing comprehensive services, going beyond the purely technical aspects of maintenance to enhance the overall passenger experience. This attention to detail positions the company as a provider of high-quality, comprehensive aviation services, catering to the discerning needs of private aircraft owners. The refurbishment reinforces Elin Air’s commitment to delivering excellence and ensuring client satisfaction.
This achievement stands in stark contrast to the prevailing norm in Nigeria, where most private aircraft operators typically outsource heavy maintenance checks to international MRO providers. Elin Air’s decision to undertake this complex procedure in-house underscores their confidence in their team’s capabilities and their commitment to developing local expertise. This bold move challenges the conventional practice and signals a shift towards greater self-reliance within Nigeria’s aviation sector. By successfully completing the 7,800-landing check within the country, Elin Air has set a precedent for other operators, demonstrating the feasibility and economic benefits of local maintenance.
The project’s success can be attributed to the leadership and expertise of the Executive Director, Engr Benedict Adeyileka; Director of Maintenance, Engr Benjamin Dzer; and Director of Quality and Safety, Florence Bitrus-Opeyemi. Their combined experience and dedication were instrumental in guiding the team and ensuring adherence to the highest standards of quality and safety throughout the process. The all-Nigerian team of engineers, working under their guidance, showcased the depth of talent available within the country and underscored the potential for future growth in Nigeria’s aviation industry. This accomplishment marks not only a significant step forward for Elin Air, but also serves as an inspiration for other local aviation companies to invest in local talent and develop in-house capabilities.
