Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has officially inaugurated a new aircraft in the fleet of the state-owned Cally Air, marking the resumption of flight services at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar. The Boeing 737, with Registration No. 5N BYR, was unveiled with a promise from the governor to add three additional aircraft to the airline’s fleet.
Governor Otu expressed the state’s commitment to raising the standard of the Calabar airport, emphasizing its potential as an international airport. He commended his predecessor, Senator Ben Ayade, for initiating Cally Air, acknowledging its role in putting Cross River on the aviation map. The governor highlighted plans for the two planes to operate the Lagos-Abuja-Calabar route twice a day, coinciding with the upcoming 32-day Carnival Calabar International Festival starting on November 30, 2023.
Governor Otu thanked aviation authorities for installing night landing systems, expressing optimism about the airport’s return to optimal functionality, including extended flight hours until 9 pm. He welcomed tourists to the state for the Carnival Calabar International Festival and encouraged them to explore Cally Air as a convenient travel option.
The Managing Director and CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, commended Governor Otu for revitalizing Cally Air services and recognized the administration’s efforts to position Cross River as an economically viable state. He encouraged air travelers to consider Aero Cally, citing the airline’s competitive fares.
The Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Eno Inah, expressed delight at the return of Cally Air services, noting the positive impact on individuals anticipating the Carnival Calabar International Festival. With plans to add three more aircraft to the Cally Air fleet, Cross River State aims for a robust aviation business.
