Eno inspects third new Airbus A220-300 for Ibom Air in Canada

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has conducted a pre-delivery inspection of Ibom Air’s latest brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft at the Airbus production facility in Mirabel, Quebec, Canada.

The new aircraft is the third brand-new Airbus A220-300 in the current delivery series for the state-owned airline. Its addition is expected to increase passenger capacity, improve scheduling flexibility and provide more reliable travel options across Ibom Air’s network.

Eno, who expressed satisfaction with the aircraft’s design, quality and technology, said the investment was aimed not only at expanding the airline’s fleet but also at improving operational efficiency, passenger comfort and service delivery. He added that stronger air connectivity would support tourism, trade and investment in Akwa Ibom.

According to the governor, the expansion of Ibom Air’s fleet would strengthen the “Destination Akwa Ibom” initiative by improving access to the state and connecting visitors with its cultural attractions, hospitality industry and growing tourism economy.

Ibom Air, wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, commenced operations in 2019 and expanded into the international market in June 2026 with scheduled flights from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo. The latest A220-300 is expected to provide additional capacity for regional routes and further position Uyo as an emerging aviation gateway.

Speaking on the aircraft, the Head of the A220 Programme and Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Canada, Guillaume Chevasson, said the A220-300 offered operational flexibility, fuel efficiency, passenger comfort and performance suited to domestic and regional networks. He also reaffirmed Airbus’ commitment to its partnership with Ibom Air.

Chevasson said the delivery would bring Ibom Air’s Airbus A220 fleet to three aircraft, while the first two A220s currently undergoing comprehensive checks were expected to return to service by the end of September 2026.

Ibom Air Chief Executive Officer, George Uriesi, described the inspection as an important milestone in the airline’s fleet expansion programme, saying the new aircraft would strengthen capacity, reliability and passenger service as demand for air travel continues to grow.