Bayelsa State-owned Pioneer Airline has received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), clearing the carrier to commence commercial flight operations in the country.
The certificate was formally presented to the airline on Wednesday, marking a significant regulatory milestone for the new state-backed carrier.
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 the certificate was officially presented to the minister.
Commenting on the development, Keyamo attributed the emergence of more state-owned airlines to what he called improved aviation policies under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
According to the minister, the current policy environment is encouraging investment and expansion within Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Keyamo said, “I remarked at the occasion that the rise in state-owned airlines is as a result of excellent aviation policies put in place by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He added that more state-backed carriers could emerge in the near future. He noted that increased airline participation would widen travel options for passengers.
The minister stated, “This would significantly assist air travellers to have more choices of airlines with which they can travel.”
An Air Operator Certificate (AOC) is a mandatory regulatory approval issued by the NCAA authorising an airline to conduct commercial air transport operations after meeting prescribed safety, operational, and technical requirements.
The certification of Pioneer Airline comes amid growing activity within Nigeria’s domestic aviation market, where operators continue to expand route networks and fleet capacity despite economic and operational challenges facing the industry.