Cross River State Takes Delivery of Two New Aircraft to Boost Tourism and Economy

Oru Leonard 

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has taken delivery of two new Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft, designed to carry up to 100 passengers each, in a bid to tackle flight delays and cancellations and enhance the state’s economic mobility. The aircraft were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday.

Each Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft can carry up to 100 passengers.

Otu said the objective is to address flight delays and cancellations, and boost the state’s tourism-driven economy.

The newly acquired aircraft will be operated by Valuejet Airline, pending the state government’s Air Operational Certification to operate as an independent airline.

Recall that the state government already owns two Boeing 747 aircraft, operated by Aero Contractors.

In his remarks, the Governor’s said the acquisition marks “a long-overdue leap into the future of seamless connectivity and economic transformation” for Cross River State as the aircraft will ensure the state is no longer at the periphery of economic conversations.

Reliable air transportation is pivotal to the success of the state’s tourism-driven economic blueprint.

Expected impact of this venture will include tourism boost in the state, particularly with attractions like Carnival Calabar and Obudu Ranch Resort; boost investor confidence in the state and lead to Economic Growth.

The development is a game-changer for the state’s economy, with potential opportunities in hospitality, conferences, agriculture, and export.