By Peter Omopo
UMZA Air has described its maiden Abuja–Ilorin and Ilorin–Abuja commercial flights as a major milestone in the airline’s expansion plan, marking what it called “a flawless take-off” for its newest regional route.
The inaugural flights, launched on Sunday, departed with full passenger loads and featured prominent officials including the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Elder Kayode Alabi, and former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Arewa PUNCH, the Managing Director of UMZA Aviation Services Limited, Anachuna Henry, expressed satisfaction with the smooth execution of both flights—from passenger processing to on-time take-off and arrival.
“We are extremely satisfied with the execution of our inaugural Abuja–Ilorin and Ilorin–Abuja flights. Everything went according to plan,” he said. “The aircraft was fully booked, and we were honoured to have the Deputy Governor and former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed flying with us on this historic service.”
Henry revealed that early passenger feedback highlighted punctuality, comfort, and inflight service quality as standout features. Several passengers, he said, commended the airline for meeting long-standing expectations for improved service on the Abuja–Ilorin corridor.
According to him, the warm reception the airline received in Ilorin further underscored the viability of the new route. Airport workers, aviation stakeholders, and residents reportedly gathered in large numbers at the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon International Airport to witness the touchdown of the first flight.
“Ilorin welcomed us warmly. Stakeholders and members of the public were visibly excited. It affirmed that this is a route that truly matters to people,” he added.
Henry praised the state of the airport, describing it as one of the cleanest in Nigeria.
On its promise of consistently affordable fares, the UMZA Air boss said the airline has developed an operational model that eliminates unnecessary costs while maintaining global safety standards. He reassured passengers that UMZA Air would not compromise on its commitment to low ticket prices despite rising industry expenses.
“We stand by our promise of affordable fares. Our business model ensures operational efficiency without compromising safety or service standards. Nigerians deserve reliable and affordable air travel,” he said.
With the successful launch of the Abuja–Ilorin service, Henry disclosed that UMZA Air is already considering expanding its route network, increasing flight frequencies, and introducing new services to enhance passenger experience.
“Ilorin is only the beginning. We are reviewing possibilities of expanding to more destinations, increasing frequency on this route, and introducing value-added services that make travel easier for our passengers,” he said.
