PilotHub is steadily emerging as a notable player in Africa’s private aviation sector, driven by a clear mission to improve how aviation services are accessed, managed, and delivered across the continent. Founded by aviation professional Barry Nzube Okoromah, the company provides private jet charter services, aircraft sales and leasing, aircraft management, ACMI solutions, and aviation consultancy, including AOC advisory and company setup.
The idea behind PilotHub grew from Barry’s firsthand experience within the aviation industry. Trained as an Aircraft Flight Dispatcher at the Lagos Aviation Academy, he gained practical knowledge in flight planning, operational control, safety management, and regulatory compliance. In 2021, he was admitted to the Johannesburg School of Flying with plans to pursue a direct flight career, but deeper exposure to the business side of aviation led him to rethink that path.
According to Barry, he observed major gaps in aircraft charter and sales within the local market. Many clients lacked direct access to verified operators, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and credible sellers, often resulting in inefficiencies, poor transparency, and weak value delivery. These challenges informed his decision to focus on aviation services and business development rather than cockpit operations.
To address these gaps, Barry carried out extensive industry research and built strategic partnerships with global aviation stakeholders, including aircraft manufacturers, international brokers, maintenance repair organisations (MROs), and spare-parts companies. These relationships now form the backbone of PilotHub’s operations, enabling the company to act as a bridge between African clients and the global aviation market.
The early days of PilotHub were both demanding and defining. Aviation is a capital-intensive and highly regulated industry where trust is essential. Rather than pursuing rapid expansion, the company focused on building strong structures, regulatory compliance, and customer experience. By investing in proper documentation, industry knowledge, and international best practices, PilotHub gradually earned credibility through consistency, transparency, and referrals.
Industry observers note that what distinguishes PilotHub is its client-centred approach. The company treats aviation services as long-term partnerships rather than one-off transactions. From initial consultation to post-service support, clients are guided through complex decisions involving capital investment, regulatory obligations, and operational planning.
Trust and confidentiality remain central to PilotHub’s operations. The company maintains strict information control systems, clear contractual frameworks, and disciplined internal processes. Client data and operational details are shared strictly on a need-to-know basis and only with verified partners, reinforcing its commitment to discretion and integrity.
Safety and regulatory compliance are also non-negotiable. PilotHub operates in line with Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) regulations while aligning with ICAO standards and OEM guidelines. Before any aircraft is deployed, the company verifies airworthiness status, maintenance records, crew qualifications, insurance coverage, and onboard serviceability to ensure both safety and passenger comfort.
Beyond Nigeria, PilotHub is pursuing a dual strategy that combines strong local expertise with global aviation standards. While remaining deeply engaged with Nigerian aviation stakeholders and regulatory realities, the company is building international partnerships and planning presence in key aviation hubs such as London, Dubai, South Africa, and Canada. This approach allows seamless cross-border operations while keeping Africa at the centre of its activities.
Over the next five years, PilotHub aims to evolve into a fully integrated aviation group. Its ambitions include managing and owning a diversified fleet, expanding structured aircraft management programmes, and playing a stronger role in aircraft acquisition and leasing across Africa. Beyond commercial growth, the company says it is committed to contributing to the long-term development of the aviation ecosystem by promoting compliance, professionalism, and global best practices.
Reflecting on the future of the industry, Barry advises young professionals and entrepreneurs to prioritise knowledge, patience, and integrity. He notes that aviation rewards discipline and long-term thinking, warning that shortcuts often result in higher financial, legal, and reputational costs.
As PilotHub continues its expansion, the company is positioning itself as evidence that an aviation brand built in Nigeria can operate globally, meet international standards, and help redefine Africa’s role in the global aviation ecosystem.
