Gov. Udom

The Akwa Ibom State Government on Thursday announced that it has acquired three aircraft to commence the operations of Ibom Airline Company.

Disclosing this to newsmen in Uyo, the state capital during a New Year chat, the state’s Commissioner for Special Duties and Aviation Development, Mr. Akan Okon said the airline will be run as a limited liability company.

Okon said the airline has the capacity to generate 400 direct and indirect jobs for the teaming unemployed youth in the state and that it has recruited a good number of indigenes of the state into its workforce.

His words: “Ibom Air has come to stay. I am happy to tell you that we have completed recruitment with a good number of Akwa Ibom children. The chief pilot is from Akwa Ibom.

“Three aircraft are secure and are ready for commencement of operation. It is completely owned and operated by the Akwa Ibom State Government and it will provide 400 direct and indirect jobs.”

While pointing out that the airline was exclusively owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, Okon  said  the management and operations of the airline will completely align with world best practices.

He disclosed that members of staff of the new airline who were recruited based on merit, were currently undergoing training in their various areas of specialty and would commence operations as soon as all formalities were concluded.