Nigerian airline ValueJet, based in Lagos, has enhanced its fleet by inducting its first CRJ700 aircraft, sourced from Regional One on an open-ended lease. The addition of this aircraft marks a significant step in the airline’s expansion strategy. A spokesperson from ValueJet confirmed to ch-aviation that the dual-cabin aircraft was en route to Lagos from Ljubljana, Slovenia, on May 22.
The CRJ700, a 65-seater aircraft with a service life of 20.43 years and bearing manufacturer serial number 10130, is set to be re-registered in Nigeria as 5N-CCK. It previously operated under the banner of ExpressJet Airlines with the registration N617QX. According to ADS-D data, the aircraft had been stationed in Slovenia since November 2023.
This induction complements ValueJet’s existing fleet, which includes two company-owned CRJ900s and one CRJ900LR. Additionally, the airline has a CRJ200ER(SF) freighter and another CRJ700 Srs 701ER, both leased from Regional One and currently parked in Lagos.
ValueJet, which began commercial operations on October 10, 2022, offers domestic scheduled passenger services connecting major Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt City, Yola, Benin City, Asaba, Kano, and Jos. The airline also provides charter services, further diversifying its operational capabilities.
The airline is part of a portfolio owned by Nigerian billionaire entrepreneur and politician Kunle Soname, who also founded the sports betting website Bet9ja. In 2015, Soname became the first Nigerian to acquire a European football club, purchasing a 70% stake in Portuguese club C.D. Feirense.
This fleet expansion by ValueJet is anticipated to enhance the airline’s service offerings and operational efficiency, reinforcing its commitment to connecting various regions within Nigeria and potentially beyond.
