AFRIJET has launched its first-ever flight from Libreville, Gabon, to Port Harcourt, Nigeria, in a significant move to strengthen regional connectivity.

This, according to Afrijet, marks a new chapter in the airline’s expansion strategy, providing a direct link between Libreville, Gabon, and Port Harcourt, Nigeria, two crucial hubs for the oil and gas industry.

This was made known through a statement signed by the General Director of Afrijet, Nyl Moret-Mba, and made available to our correspondent on Tuesday.

Operating twice a week, Moret-Mba said the flights are conducted on an ATR 72-600, offering eight business class seats and 54 economy class seats.

He added that the departure schedule from Libreville to Port Harcourt is set for Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:15 PM and 3:30 PM, respectively, while the return flights from Port Harcourt to Libreville are available on Wednesdays and Fridays, landing in Gabon at 12:30 PM and 7:15 PM.

The statement reads partly, “This new route dramatically reduces travel time, making Port Harcourt just 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Libreville. It also provides direct connections to other key cities in Central and West Africa, including Douala, Pointe-Noire, Port-Gentil, Malabo, and even Johannesburg.

“The launch is expected to significantly benefit the oil sector by easing the movement of personnel and facilitating trade, as well as improving cultural exchanges between these strategic regions.”

Furthermore, starting in April 2025, Afrijet also promised to expand its presence with four weekly flights in each direction, doubling its current frequency.

Additionally, the airline said it was set to enhance its network with a new direct flight from Libreville to Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic.

The General Director of Afrijet said, “Beginning February 19, 2025, this 1 hour and 45-minute flight will operate every Wednesday, with departures from Libreville at 3:45 PM and from Bangui at 6:30 PM. The flight will be operated on a CRJ 900 aircraft, which offers 90 seats.

“These new direct routes between Libreville, Port Harcourt, and Bangui are a key milestone in improving regional travel.

“By reducing logistical barriers, we are enhancing connectivity between Central Africa and Nigeria, making travel faster and more comfortable for our passengers.”