Cross River Acquires CRJ1000 Jets to Boost Tourism, End Flight Delays

The Cross River State Government has taken delivery of two Bombardier CRJ1000 aircraft to improve regional air connectivity, minimize flight delays, and boost tourism in the state.

Governor Bassey Otu received the jets at a formal handover ceremony held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The CRJ1000 is a regional jet with a seating capacity of up to 100 passengers.

Speaking during the event, Governor Otu emphasized that the acquisition signals the start of an aviation revolution in Cross River State.

“For too long, our people and visitors alike have endured the hardship of air travel disruptions. Today marks the beginning of the end of that era,” Otu said.

Reliable Air Travel for Tourism and Investment

The Governor explained that the CRJ1000 aircraft will serve as a strategic tool in implementing the state’s tourism-driven economic blueprint.

“These aircraft are more than machines; they are catalysts of commerce, bridges of culture, and vessels of hope. With Carnival Calabar, Obudu Ranch Resort, and our ecotourism assets beckoning the world, accessibility must never be a hindrance again,” he added.

Otu noted that the new aircraft would also build investor confidence by improving logistics and accessibility to the state.

“No economy thrives in isolation. Investors want assurance of smooth logistics. These aircraft will ensure Cross River is no longer at the periphery of economic conversations,” the Governor stressed.

Four Aircraft in the State Fleet

Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Imah Eno Utum (Retd), said the new jets bring the total number of aircraft owned by the state to four.

He explained that while two Boeing 747 aircraft previously acquired by the administration of former Governor Ben Ayade are operated by Aero Contractors, the new Bombardier CRJ1000 jets will be temporarily operated by ValueJet Airline. This will continue until the state secures its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to function as an independent airline.

High Praise from Stakeholders

Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke, described the aircraft acquisition as a “game-changing intervention” and a “long-overdue leap into the future of seamless connectivity and economic transformation.”

He noted that the development would reshape Calabar’s image as a difficult-to-reach destination and open up opportunities in tourism, agriculture, export, and business conferences.

The official commissioning of the two CRJ1000 aircraft by the Federal Ministry of Aviation is scheduled for August 12, 2025.