Bayelsa State-owned Pioneer Airlines has officially commenced non-scheduled flight operations with one of the aircraft acquired by the Bayelsa State Government, an ATR 72-600, now being operated in partnership with a private airline operator.

The inaugural flight departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, with Captain M. Ibrahim and First Officer Joyce serving as pilots, marking a notable milestone with a female co-pilot in the flight deck.

The aircraft taxied from the Abuja airport tarmac at 11:00hrs and, following clearance from the control tower, took off at approximately 11:10hrs en route to the Bayelsa International Airport.

Among dignitaries aboard the flight was Governor Douye Diri, accompanied by former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Gabriel Onyenwife; the Governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters I, High Chief Collins Cocodia; and five aides of the governor.

The commencement of operations under the partnership with Pioneer Airlines signals Bayelsa State’s entry into commercial aviation, a move expected to boost economic activities and expand the state’s internally generated revenue base.

Governor Diri expressed confidence in the airline’s operational capacity and commitment to delivering quality services, while affirming optimism for a productive and mutually beneficial partnership with the state government.