Bayelsa State on Tuesday marked a historic milestone with the launch of Air Bayelsa, its first state-owned commercial airline, following the successful maiden flight from Abuja to the Bayelsa International Airport in Yenagoa.The ATR-72/600 aircraft, carrying Governor Douye Diri and about 50 dignitaries, departed Abuja at 9:30 a.m. and landed at 10:40 a.m., where it received a traditional water cannon salute and an enthusiastic welcome from residents and officials.Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Diri described the launch of Air Bayelsa as the fulfillment of a six-year promise to deliver reliable air transportation for the state.“Today, that promise takes wing. Bayelsa is launching its own commercial air services,” he said.
The governor announced that the aircraft, previously registered under Pioneer Airline, will be re-registered immediately as Air Bayelsa or Bayelsa Air, reflecting its status as a 100 per cent state-owned carrier.Governor Diri acknowledged the roles of former governors, the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha for initiating the airport project, and Senator Seriake Dickson for completing it. He also commended Premium Trust Bank for supporting the aircraft acquisition and thanked the Bayelsa State House of Assembly for its legislative backing.
Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, Air Vice-Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), revealed that Air Bayelsa will begin daily scheduled flights to Lagos and Abuja, with plans for expansion to other Niger Delta states.Senator Konbowei Benson, representing the Bayelsa National Assembly Caucus, described the launch as a testament to Governor Diri’s visionary leadership and commitment to economic development.Also on the flight was Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who urged the state government to maintain strict operational standards.“For Air Bayelsa to succeed and avoid the fate of many state-owned airlines, all government officials must pay their fares when they fly it. No free rides,” he said. “Patronage starts with us.”Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, praised the feat as transformational for the region.“This is a proud moment for Bayelsa and the entire Niger Delta. Air connectivity will boost commerce, tourism, and unity. The NDDC stands ready to partner with Air Bayelsa to ensure its success,” he stated.
Other dignitaries aboard the historic flight included former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), members of the National Assembly Caucus, PANDEF National Chairman Dr. Boladei Igali, and Ijaw National Congress President Prof. Benjamin Okaba.A second ATR-72/600 aircraft is expected to arrive in the coming weeks, giving Air Bayelsa a two-aircraft fleet as it commences operations.
