*Commercial flights resume June 13
By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government has announced the full commencement of commercial flight operations at the Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Onueke, following major runway upgrades and six months of charter test flights.
Speaking during a press briefing held at the airport on Monday, the State Commissioner for Aviation and Technology, Dr. (Mrs.) Ngozi Obichukwu, confirmed that scheduled commercial flights will begin on June 13, operated by United Nigeria Airlines.
According to her, flights will initially operate twice weekly, with Abuja-bound flights on Mondays and Lagos-bound flights on Fridays.
To make air travel more accessible, Obichukwu announced a government subsidy that reduces ticket fares to a flat rate of ₦100,000 for both destinations—reportedly less than half the current market rate.
“Our Governor, His Excellency Right Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has made air travel affordable by subsidizing ticket prices. It’s a strategic move to celebrate the achievements of this two-year-old administration, which has accomplished more than many would expect in two decades,” Obichukwu stated.
The Commissioner emphasized the state’s broader vision of transforming the airport into a major hub for international cargo exports.
“With cargo facilities already in place, Ebonyi aims to export a variety of local agricultural and mineral products—including yams, rice, cassava, salt, and limestone—to international markets. We are currently in discussions with partners in Dubai and Canada to establish cargo flight arrangements. Ebonyi is ready for global trade,” she added.
Obichukwu recalled that while the airport was initially commissioned in 2023, operations were temporarily suspended after regulatory authorities identified issues with the runway construction.
She noted that the runway has since been upgraded from concrete to asphalt, and full regulatory clearance has now been secured.
“Today, those who once criticized our runway are now applauding it. We’ve earned their confidence,” she said, expressing gratitude to key aviation agencies including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
She also disclosed that the airport’s digital booking platform is nearing completion and will be launched by October this year, enabling users around the world to access both passenger and cargo services online.
Obichukwu urged residents and travelers to take advantage of the limited-time subsidized fares, noting high early demand.
“The Friday Abuja flight is already nearly full. It’s strictly first come, first served,” she warned.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the facility, Obichukwu said the airport represents more than just a mode of transport.
“This airport is not just for travel. It’s a gateway to transformation. Ebonyi is no longer a question mark on the development map; we are a bold exclamation,” she declared.
She concluded by commending journalists for their role in promoting transparency and nation-building, promising continued collaboration. “We are on, and no man can stop us again,” she said confidently.
