Bayelsa's Pioneer Airline to Launch Flights May 25, 2025

Pioneer Airline, a Bayelsa State-owned airline, has successfully obtained its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and plans to begin flight operations on May 25, 2025. The announcement was made by the airline's Managing Director, Capt.

Henri Ungbuku, during a presentation of the certificate at the Government House in Yenagoa, which was attended by Governor Douye Diri. The certification process, which typically takes between eight months to two years, was completed in just four and a half months, a milestone attributed to Governor Diri's commitment to ensuring the airline's operational commencement.

Pioneer Airline has an agreement to acquire two ATR 72-600 aircraft, with its inaugural flight scheduled for November 26, 2025, from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The airline will operate under a dry lease agreement with the Bayelsa State government, which will receive monthly lease payments.

Ticket bookings are expected to open within seven to ten days ahead of the launch.