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BREAKING: Anambra airport ‘begins’ commercial flights next week
Barring any last-minute delay, the newly inaugurated Anambra International Cargo Airport, Umueri, is expected to begin commercial operations next week.
This is following approval by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for formal opening of the airport, a landmark achievement of Governor Willie Obiano administration.
The approval was conveyed in a letter to Governor Obiano, dated 1st December 2021 and signed by the NCAA Director General, Captain Musa S. Nuhu.
The NCAA letter reads: “His Excellency may wish to recall NCAA’s response to your request for the commissioning of Anambra International Cargo Airport for flight operations. This was conveyed vide letter with reference number NCAA/AC/015/21/VOL/162 dated 28th October.
“The Authority was unable to grant His Excellency’s request due to adverse security reports. However, I now wish to inform His Excellency that NCAA has received clearance from relevant Security Agency approving the opening of Anambra International Cargo Airport for flight operations.
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“In view of the above and in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 12.1.4.1 ©, I am pleased to inform His Excellency that the Authority hereby grants Anambra State government approval to operate Category B aircraft (Dash8-Q400 or its equivalent on rescue and fire Category 5) with effect from 2nd December, 2021. The operations shall be Visual Flight Rules (VFR) only i.e., sunrise to sunset. Whenever outstanding requirements are met all restrictions will be removed.
“The Anambra State Government is required to adhere to Safety, Security and COVID-19 requirements at the airport at all times.”
Meanwhile, United Nigeria Airline says it is ready to commence commercial flight operations to the airport from “next week”.
The airlines’ Executive Chairman, Obiora Okonkwo, in a chat congratulating Obiano on the NCAA approval assured him of his airlines’ readiness to start operations.
“Congrats HE. We are ready to commence operations at the airport next week,” an obviously excited Okonkwo enthused the governor.
