AFG Aviation Ireland Limited, a global player in commercial aircraft leasing and asset management, has finalized the lease of two Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets to Cally Air, the state-owned airline of Cross River State, Nigeria.

The aircraft, identified by Manufacturer Serial Numbers 19004 and 19009, were acquired by AFG from Regional One and subsequently leased to Cally Air under a finance lease arrangement.

This development follows a recent announcement by the Akwa Ibom State Government, owners of Cally Air, regarding the acquisition of the aircraft and their transfer to ValueJet for operational management under a partnership agreement.

According to the terms, ValueJet will oversee the daily operations of the two CRJ1000 jets under its Air Operator Certificate. The airline is expected to manage the aircraft while Cally Air retains ownership.

Christian Nuehlen, Founder and CEO of AFG Aviation, described the lease as a strategic achievement for both AFG’s expansion in Africa and Cally Air’s fleet development plans.

“These advanced, fuel-efficient jets are essential assets that will enhance Cally Air’s domestic service and facilitate the launch of new routes across West Africa,” Nuehlen said, adding that the agreement reflects AFG’s capacity to bridge global investment with regional aspirations.

Christian Hatje, AFG’s Senior Vice President of Commercial, also noted that the partnership underscores the company’s confidence in Africa’s aviation potential.

AFG further highlighted that the lease supports Cally Air’s ambition to become a top-tier regional airline, while contributing to economic development, trade, and tourism growth in the region.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to delivering well-structured aircraft transactions and being a dependable partner for airlines and investors targeting high-growth markets.