Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport Prepares for Full Operations with Test Flight
The Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado Ekiti marked an important milestone on Friday with the arrival of a Beechcraft 350i aircraft, signaling the imminent start of full operational activities at the facility. This development follows the recent approval granted by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority for non-scheduled flight operations for a six-month period.
AVM Sunday Makinde (retd.), the Technical Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Airport Projects, explained that the aircraft, sent by officials of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), was part of a working flight aimed at evaluating airport systems. “This calibration flight is crucial for assessing our navigational aids to ensure that arriving aircraft can accurately receive the allocated frequencies. We also need to validate our communication systems with the control tower—key parameters essential for safe flights,” Makinde stated.
According to Makinde, the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Airport is fully prepared for operations. “Since December 15, we have been cleared for non-scheduled flights and are ready to progress further. We are just in the final stages of preparations before initiating commercial aviation services, which will commence shortly,” he added.
Taiwo Olatunbosun, the state Commissioner for Information, emphasized that the test flight’s purpose was to assess the regulatory and digital systems integral to airport operations. “The team is conducting a thorough evaluation of our operational equipment in anticipation of the Minister of Aviation’s upcoming visit. We have worked diligently to secure all necessary approvals from federal regulatory bodies, including NAMA, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria,” Olatunbosun remarked.
He forecasted a busy airport future, stating, “Soon, we will witness increased airline traffic at this facility. The quality of our infrastructure, including one of the longest and best runways in the country, speaks volumes about Ekiti’s commitment to excellence and impeccable standards.” He also highlighted the transformative potential of the airport for the region’s economy, aiming to position Ekiti as a hub for industrialization and other positive developments.
Join our Channel...