Bayelsa’s Pioneer Airline Receives NCAA Certification, Begins Commercial Operations

The Bayelsa State-owned airline, Pioneer Airline, has officially commenced commercial operations following the presentation of its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The certificate was presented to the airline on Wednesday, marking a major milestone in Bayelsa State’s entry into Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Following the presentation, the airline’s management team, led by its Managing Director, Capt. Ungbuku, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, where they formally presented the AOC.

Speaking during the meeting, the minister described the emergence of more state-owned airlines as a reflection of the favourable aviation policies introduced under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, the federal government’s aviation reforms are creating an enabling environment for increased private and state participation in the industry.

He noted that the development would provide Nigerians with more travel options and further boost the country’s aviation sector.

“Yesterday, the Bayelsa State-owned airline named Pioneer Airline was presented its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by the regulator, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), signalling the beginning of its commercial operations,” the minister stated.

He added that more state-owned airlines were expected to emerge in the near future due to the current administration’s aviation-friendly policies.

Reacting to the development, the Chief Press Secretary to Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Daniel Alabrah, celebrated the milestone, describing it as another major achievement for the state.

“Congratulations Bayelsa! Congratulations Pioneer Airline! Now the waiting is over,” Alabrah stated.

He further expressed optimism about future projects in the state, including the proposed gas turbine initiative, adding that the development represents a “win-win” situation for Bayelsa.

The statement also praised Governor Diri, popularly referred to as “SDD,” describing him as “the silent transformer whose achievement is loud.”