Akwa Ibom flags off first international flight

By Fredrick Ameh

The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced that the maiden international flight from Victor Attah International Airport will take off on Saturday, May 2, 2026, officially marking the start of international flight operations at the airport.

The development follows the approval of the airport’s upgrade to international status by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside sustained infrastructural investments by Governor Umo Eno to meet global aviation standards.

The inaugural flight will be operated by Ibom Air, with departure from Uyo to Kotoka International Airport, while a return trip is scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026.

The State Government described the milestone as a major leap in its drive to expand aviation capacity, strengthen international connectivity, and position Akwa Ibom as a growing hub for tourism, trade, and investment.

According to the statement, the commencement of international flights reflects the administration’s commitment to building critical infrastructure that supports economic growth and global integration.

It further clarified that while the maiden flight signals the beginning of international operations, the official commissioning of the new terminal and full commercial international schedules will be announced subsequently.

The government also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for granting approval for the upgrade, as well as to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his support in actualising the project.

Additionally, it acknowledged the contributions of past administrations in developing the aviation sector, reaffirming its commitment to sustaining growth and maximising the sector’s economic potential.