Bayelsa owned airline begins non-scheduled flight

Ebun Emmanuel – May 26, 2026

Bayelsa state owned Pioneer Airlines has commenced non-scheduled flight operations with one of the aircraft acquired by the state government, ATR 72-600, and operated by the private airline.

The flight was flown by Captain M. Ibrahim and First Officer Joyce, a female co-pilot.

The aircraft taxied off the tarmac of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 11am en route the Bayelsa International Airport.

Diri, who was aboard the aircraft was accompanied by a former member of the House of Representatives, Gabriel Onyenwife, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters 1, High Chief Collins Cocodia, and five of the governor’s aides.

The partnership with Pioneer Airlines kick-starts Bayelsa’s foray into commercial aviation and another opportunity to expand the state’s internally generated revenue base.

Diri expressed confidence in the airline’s ability and capacity to deliver quality services while looking forward to a robust and rewarding partnership.