Ogona Anita
Bayelsa State has officially commenced commercial flight operations with its state-owned aircraft, operated by Pioneer Airlines, marking a significant milestone in the state’s transportation and economic development.
The inaugural flight landed at Bayelsa International Airport from Abuja on Wednesday morning.
The ATR-72/600 aircraft departed Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 09:30, carrying about 50 passengers, including Governor Douye Diri, Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, members of the National Assembly caucus, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and Niger Delta Development Commission Managing Director Dr Samuel Ogbuku.
Upon arrival, the aircraft was honoured with a traditional water cannon salute by airport fire service vehicles.
In October, the Bayelsa State Government announced the acquisition of two aircraft to commence commercial flights at Bayelsa International Airport.
Governor Diri described the launch as historic, emphasising the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its promise to enhance Bayelsa’s connectivity by air to other parts of Nigeria and beyond.
“Six years ago, we promised the people of Bayelsa a future of air connectivity and opportunity. Today, that promise takes flight as Bayelsa launches its own commercial air services.
On behalf of the Government of Renewed Hope for Assured Prosperity, I am honoured to commission the first of two ATR‑72/600 aircraft, each capable of carrying 72 passengers and crew.
This achievement heralds a new era of connectivity for Bayelsa, bringing regular and reliable air services that will stimulate commerce and development, connect businesses to new markets, and empower our people to thrive.”
The governor also ordered that the airline, currently operating under Pioneer Airlines, be renamed Air Bayelsa to reflect its status as a state-owned carrier.
He acknowledged the pioneering efforts of his predecessors, especially the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who envisioned the airport, and the immediate past Governor Seriake Dickson, who brought the project to fruition.
Governor Diri expressed gratitude to Premium Trust Bank, Pioneer Airlines, and the Bayelsa State House of Assembly for their support in realising the project.
Air Vice-Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, stated the airline will serve routes within the Niger Delta—including Port Harcourt, Warri, Uyo, and Calabar—as well as Abuja and Lagos.
Cabin crew and flight attendants have been trained and recruited to support commercial operations.
Captain Henry Ungbuku, Managing Director of Pioneer Airlines, assured that the airline would embody the aspirations of Bayelsa residents and the wider Niger Delta region. Meanwhile, Premium Trust Bank, which facilitated aircraft acquisition, expressed satisfaction at contributing to the initiative.
Regional and national stakeholders, including Senator Konbowei Benson and Dr Boladei Igali, President of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, applauded the launch and pledged their support to ensure the airline’s success and sustainability
