ValueJet Partners with Cally Air to Operate Cross River’s New CRJ1000 Jets

ValueJet has signed a sub-lease and operational services agreement with Cally Air, the Cross River State-owned carrier, to operate and manage its two newly acquired Bombardier CRJ1000 regional jets.

The deal, announced on Tuesday in Lagos, places day-to-day operations of the CRJ1000s under ValueJet’s Air Operator Certificate, enabling the aircraft to begin commercial service promptly. The arrangement covers flight operations, crew management, and technical oversight to ensure the jets are deployed efficiently and safely.

Cross River State recently took delivery of the CRJ1000ERs, reintroducing the type to active commercial service on the African continent. The partnership is expected to boost passenger capacity on key domestic routes and improve regional connectivity.

“We are pleased to partner with Cally Air and the Cross River State Government to bring the two CRJ1000s into commercial service quickly and safely,” said ValueJet Managing Director, Capt. Omololu Oladapo Majekodunmi. “This arrangement leverages ValueJet’s regional operations experience to expand reliable connectivity for travellers within and outside Nigeria.”

Cally Air, wholly owned by the Cross River State Government, previously partnered with Aero Contractors for its operations. Its fleet now includes two Boeing 737-300s and the two new CRJ1000s. The airline currently serves routes including Calabar, Lagos, and Abuja, with plans to expand into other domestic and regional destinations.

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