Bayelsa State on Tuesday achieved a major milestone as one of its two newly acquired aircraft completed its inaugural flight and landed at the Bayelsa International Airport to the jubilation of thousands of residents.
The ATR-72/600 aircraft, which departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 09:30hrs with about 50 passengers and crew — including Governor Douye Diri — touched down in Bayelsa at exactly 10:40hrs. On board were several dignitaries: former Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd); members of the state’s National Assembly Caucus; Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Sam Ogbuku; President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Ben Okaba; and PANDEF National Chairman, Dr. Boladei Igali, among others.
The touchdown was greeted with a loud celebration as the aircraft received the traditional water cannon salute from airport fire trucks.
Governor Diri described the moment as historic, affirming that the successful flight signified his administration’s dedication to delivering on its promise to connect Bayelsa to the rest of the country and the world through reliable air travel.
“Six years ago, we promised the people of Bayelsa a future of air connectivity and opportunity. Today, that promise takes wing,” he said. “This marks the beginning of a new era of connectivity for Bayelsa — one that will support commerce, development, and new opportunities for our people.”
He further directed that the aircraft, previously registered under Pioneer Airline, be renamed Air Bayelsa or Bayelsa Air before commercial operations commence, stressing that the planes are state-owned.
The governor also acknowledged the foundational work of past leaders, particularly the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who conceptualised the airport project, and former Governor Seriake Dickson, who brought it to fruition.
Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, Air Vice-Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), disclosed that the airline would operate daily Lagos and Abuja routes as well as flights to other Niger Delta states.
Similarly, Pioneer Airlines MD, Captain Henry Ungbuku, pledged that the carrier would reflect the aspirations of Bayelsa people and justify the confidence reposed in it.
Premium Trust Bank MD/CEO, Emmanuel Emefienim, lauded the partnership that made the acquisition of the aircraft possible. Members of the National Assembly Caucus, represented by Senator Konbowei Benson, also pledged their continued support.
Minister Lokpobiri commended Governor Diri and urged the state to ensure sustainability by encouraging government officials to patronise the airline. NDDC MD, Dr. Ogbuku, described the development as timely and economically strategic, pledging the commission’s readiness to partner the airline.
PANDEF Chairman Igali added that the region was proud of Governor Diri’s achievements and would continue to support his administration’s development drive.
