The Cross River State Government plans to launch a state-owned airline and build a new airport in the state capital to boost air connectivity and tourism.

They are pursuing regulatory approvals, including an Air Operator’s Certificate and Air Transport Licence, with expectations to secure the ATL within 90 days.

The state currently manages two Boeing 737-300 aircraft and awaits two CRJ-1000 jets to expand its fleet.

Cross River aims to train 800 aviation professionals annually and plans a third airport to complement current facilities, addressing spatial limits at the existing Calabar airport to support tourism and investment growth.