Imo, UK Firm Sign Airport MoU, Float Imo Air

Governor Rochas Okorocha, although awaiting the outcome of the supreme court ruling on the validity of his last April election, maybe proving to Imo state indigenes why they should trust his regime. ostensibly, the runway edge lights at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, which commenced test run years after it stopped working is sign that the states’ economy is on a rebound.
The community airport which had been operating 1-hourly flights daily is expected to extend its operations to sixteen hours daily when the test run is completed and based on regulatory approval. Consequently, the Imo state government recently signed an MoU with a British firm for the airports refurbishment.
Governor Okorocha also announced an audacious bid to float an airline as part of measures to diversify the income generation streams of the state during his presentation of the state’s Appropriation Bill for 2012.
The new ImoAir airline which would be in partnership with private business consigns  would operate as a limited liability company and be weaned off government control and public service bureaucracy.
Henry Ogbonnanya, managing director of Sam Mbakwe airport said the landing field has been fitted with new technological landing and navigational equipment. He stated that there is now improved lightening system to enable the airport function optimally and meet regulatory requirements.
He assured patrons of the airport that they would have a new experience following the remodeling of the airport. “From the arrival at the tarmac, passengers will have a new experience at the Sam Mbakwe airport, Owerri. We are also planning a befitting new passenger terminal to meet the demands of modern travelers,” said Ogbonnanya.