Bayelsa State took a huge step in its aviation journey on Wednesday as one of its newly acquired ATR-72/600 aircraft completed its maiden flight, landing at the state-owned airport to a rapturous welcome.
The aircraft, carrying around 50 passengers including Governor Douye Diri, departed the domestic terminal of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at 9:30 am and touched down in Bayelsa at 10:40 am.
On board were several dignitaries, among them former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah, members of the state’s National Assembly Caucus, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, NDDC Managing Director Dr Sam Ogbuku, Ijaw National Congress President Prof Ben Okaba, and PANDEF National Chairman Dr Boladei Igali.
The aircraft was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute on arrival, as a large crowd gathered to witness the historic event.
Governor Diri hailed the occasion as a turning point for the state, describing it as the realisation of a long-held ambition to connect Bayelsa to the rest of the country by air.
He said the launch of commercial air services would open new economic frontiers and improve access for residents and businesses alike.
“Six years ago, we promised the people of Bayelsa a future of air connectivity and opportunity. Today, that promise takes wing.
“This achievement marks the beginning of a new era of connectivity for Bayelsa, bringing regular and reliable air services that fuel modern commerce and development,” he said.
The aircraft, currently registered under Pioneer Airline, will be rebranded as Air Bayelsa or Bayelsa Air before commencing full commercial operations.
Governor Diri clarified that the airline is wholly owned by the state and not a private venture.
He paid tribute to former leaders who laid the groundwork for the state’s aviation ambitions, including the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who first envisioned an airport at the current site, and former Governor Seriake Dickson, who brought the project to fruition.
The governor also acknowledged the support of Premium Trust Bank, Pioneer Airline, and the Bayelsa State House of Assembly in making the acquisition possible.
Air Vice-Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, said the airline would operate daily flights to Lagos and Abuja, with plans to expand to other Niger Delta states.
Captain Henry Ungbuku, Managing Director of Pioneer Airlines, pledged to reflect the aspirations of the people in the airline’s operations and thanked the governor for entrusting the company with the responsibility of managing the aircraft.
Premium Trust Bank CEO Emmanuel Emefienim described the development as a testament to strategic collaboration between the bank and the state government.
Senator Konbowei Benson, speaking on behalf of the state’s National Assembly Caucus, commended the governor’s foresight and pledged continued legislative support.
Senator Lokpobiri urged the state to ensure the sustainability of the airline by encouraging officials to patronise it.
Dr Ogbuku of the NDDC echoed this sentiment, offering the commission’s support to help the airline thrive.
Also speaking, Dr Igali of PANDEF praised the governor’s leadership and reaffirmed the forum’s commitment to supporting Bayelsa’s development agenda.
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