The Ebonyi State Government has announced the full commencement of commercial flight operations at the Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Onueke, following successful rehabilitation of its runway.
Speaking during a media briefing at the Airport premises on Monday, the Commissioner for Aviation and Technology, Ngozi Obichukwu, revealed that United Nigeria Airlines will commence scheduled commercial flights from June 13, offering routes from Onueke to Abuja and Lagos.
Obichukwu added that operations will initially run twice a week—Abuja flights on Mondays and Lagos flights on Fridays.
According to the Commissioner, Governor Francis Nwifuru has made air travel affordable by subsidising ticket prices to a flat rate of ₦100,000 for both Lagos and Abuja routes—less than half the typical fare.
“It’s a strategic move to celebrate the achievements of this two-year-old administration that has accomplished more than many would expect in two decades,” Obichukwu stated.
The commissioner emphasized that the state is set to leverage the airport’s cargo facilities for international export of agricultural produce and solid minerals, including yam, rice, cassava, salt, and limestone.
“We are in talks with partners from Dubai and Canada to establish cargo flight arrangements. Ebonyi is ready for global trade,” she said.
“Today, those who once criticised our runway are now the ones applauding it. We have earned their confidence,” she added.
The commissioner lauded the aviation agencies—including NCAA, FAAN, and NAMA—for their guidance and confirmed that all operations remain under regulatory compliance.
She revealed that the airport’s digital booking platform is currently 80% complete and expected to go live by October, allowing global access to its services.
She encouraged the public to take advantage of the subsidised fares, noting, “This is a rare opportunity. The Friday Abuja flight is already nearly full. It’s strictly first come, first served.”