United Nigeria Airline (UNA) has entered a partnership with Cronos Aviation, a Montreal-based international charter airline, to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Lagos, aims to set up a high-standard facility that will service UNA’s fleet and other airlines.
Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, UNA’s chairman, highlighted that Cronos Aviation will bring its technical expertise and technology, helping UNA train its crew and technical personnel. He noted that the MRO facility will reduce aircraft maintenance delays and minimize “aircraft on ground” (AOG) situations that often disrupt operations. Okonkwo also emphasized that the exorbitant cost of overseas maintenance drains the finances of Nigerian airlines. This partnership with Cronos will cut operational costs, save foreign exchange, and encourage local engagement in aviation.
Cronos Aviation operates an MRO facility at South Africa’s O.R. Tambo International Airport, certified to service Embraer and Boeing 737 aircraft. “We are replicating this in Nigeria to benefit the entire aviation industry by reducing foreign exchange expenditure, enhancing manpower development, and facilitating technology transfer,” Okonkwo explained.
The partnership also includes an interline and codeshare agreement, enhancing UNA’s regional service capabilities. “This agreement will support regional air travel and help stimulate commercial activities,” said Okonkwo. Additionally, it allows UNA to leverage the “fifth freedom” in aviation, enabling foreign carriers to operate on local routes within Nigeria.
To reduce capital flight, Okonkwo pointed out that a basic C-check for an aircraft abroad costs at least $500,000, and frequent short-haul flights within Nigeria speed up maintenance schedules, adding to the financial burden. With the MRO facility, UNA aims to bring these services locally, reducing both costs and maintenance turnaround times.
Regarding fleet expansion, UNA plans to acquire six Embraer 190 aircraft by mid-2025. The first E190 has already joined the fleet, with additional aircraft expected in the coming months. This fleet expansion will be accompanied by comprehensive crew and engineering training, including certifications from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
“We prioritize training, ensuring our crew meets both Nigerian and European standards,” Okonkwo emphasized, highlighting UNA’s commitment to high-quality service and safety standards.
