Experts Outline Path To Viable State-owned Airlines

BY YUSUF BABALOLA, Lagos; EJIKE EJIKE, Abuja; INIOBONG EKPONTA, Uyo; NNAMDI MBAWIKE, Enugu
Aviation experts have urged state governments to prioritise supporting infrastructure and sound business planning before committing billions of naira to aircraft acquisition and airline operations, warning that poorly conceived ventures could become drains on public finances.
The warning comes as more states venture into commercial aviation. From Akwa Ibom’s Ibom Air to Enugu Air, Cross River’s Cally Air and Bayelsa’s Pioneer Airlines, governments are investing in airlines to improve connectivity, stimulate tourism, attract investors and create jobs.
Speaking with LEADERSHIP, the experts said ...