Dr. Obichukwu addressed these reports directly, clarifying that the airport is indeed operational, regularly accommodating chartered flights. To substantiate this, she pointed out that two chartered flights were scheduled to arrive at the international airport on the day of her statement, with one having already landed, serving as tangible evidence of the airport's current functionality.
Expressing her disappointment with what she described as "negative" and "false allegations" in some media outlets, Dr. Obichukwu emphasized the importance of responsible journalism that aims for corrective criticism rather than unwarranted attacks. She asserted that on-site inspections would readily reveal the inaccuracy of the flood claims, highlighting the clean state of the airport premises and the ongoing flight operations. She further dismissed a circulating image on social media as not originating from the Ebonyi airport, cautioning against the spread of misinformation.
Providing further clarity on the operational timeline, the Commissioner stated that her ministry is diligently adhering to the directives issued by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). She revealed that the NCAA has granted a one-month window for commercial flight operations to commence in June. Dr. Obichukwu explained that the airport has been operating on a charter basis for the preceding six to seven months as part of a gradual progression towards full commercial operations, a standard procedure governed by aviation regulations.
Specifically, she announced that United Nigeria Airline is set to operate passenger flights connecting Ebonyi to Lagos, Lagos to Ebonyi, Abuja to Ebonyi, and Ebonyi to Abuja during this initial one-month period. Details regarding flight booking and payment methods will be released shortly, she assured the public.
The arrival of a chartered flight bearing the registration number N989BC at the Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo International Airport during a visit by a DAILY POST correspondent further corroborated the Commissioner's assurances, underscoring the airport's active status as it prepares to usher in a new era of commercial air travel for Ebonyi State.