Akwa Ibom State is set to record a historic milestone in its aviation development as the maiden international flight from Victor Attah International Airport to Kotoka International Airport is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026.
The inaugural flight, to be operated by Ibom Air, marks the commencement of international operations from Uyo following presidential approval upgrading the airport to international status and sustained investments by the administration of Governor Umo Eno in aviation infrastructure and technical facilities.
Announcing the development in a press release, the Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, described the development as a defining moment in the State’s drive to deepen aviation capacity, improve global connectivity and strengthen Akwa Ibom’s profile as a preferred hub for tourism, trade and investment.
According to the release, the inaugural international service will depart Uyo for Accra on Saturday, May 2, with a return flight scheduled for Sunday, May 3.
The government said the maiden flight represents more than a symbolic breakthrough, noting that it reflects years of deliberate planning and investment aimed at positioning the State as a major player in regional and international air transportation.
“This historic milestone represents a significant step in the State’s strategic drive to expand its aviation capacity, enhance international connectivity, and position Akwa Ibom as a preferred destination for tourism and investment,” the statement said.
While the inaugural flight signals the beginning of international operations from Uyo, government clarified that the formal commissioning of the new terminal building as well as full commercial international flight schedules would be announced in due course.
The State Government expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting approval for the airport’s international upgrade, and commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his role in facilitating the realization of the vision.
It also acknowledged the contributions of past administrations in laying the foundation for the State’s aviation growth, noting that the milestone underscores a continuity of vision in the development of Akwa Ibom’s aviation ecosystem.
Observers say the launch of the Uyo-Accra route is expected to boost regional connectivity, ease business travel, open new tourism opportunities and further reinforce Akwa Ibom’s emerging reputation as an economic gateway in the Gulf of Guinea region.
The maiden international flight comes as the State continues to pursue broader infrastructure and investment initiatives under Governor Eno’s development agenda, with officials describing the moment as the dawn of a new era for air travel in Akwa Ibom.
