Ibom Air welcomes second Airbus A220-300 to growing fleet

Ibom Air has announced the addition of a second Airbus A220-300 to its growing fleet, following the aircraft’s arrival in Nigeria on August 10, 2024, at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The Akwa Ibom State Government, which is the airline’s shareholder, formally received the new aircraft on Tuesday, during a ceremony at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The acquisition is part of Ibom Air’s strategic plan to rapidly expand its capacity and route network. The Airbus A220-300, known for its fuel efficiency, environmental sustainability, and passenger comfort, is expected to enhance the airline’s ability to increase flight frequencies on existing routes and introduce new destinations.

During the welcome ceremony, Pastor Imoabasi Jacob, Chairman of Ibom Air, praised the airline’s management for their resilience and hard work, and acknowledged the unwavering support of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno.

Governor Eno expressed his excitement about the new addition to the fleet, stating, “The arrival of our second Airbus A220 reiterates the state’s unwavering commitment to advancing our aviation sector.

This addition aligns with our strategic vision for Ibom Air and supports the economic growth and development of Akwa Ibom State by enhancing air travel and connectivity, creating job opportunities, and boosting tourism.”

Ibom Air CEO, Mr. Mfon Udom, highlighted the significance of the new aircraft in meeting the increasing demand for air travel. “We are thrilled to welcome our second wholly owned Airbus A220. This aircraft will significantly boost our capacity in response to the growing service demand. A special thanks to the Nigerian financial institutions, particularly Fidelity Bank and Union Bank, who continue to support Ibom Air. We also deeply appreciate our valued customers for their patience during recent flight disruptions, and we are committed to delivering remarkable improvements moving forward,” Udom said.

Representing the consortium of financiers, Kevin Ugwuoke, Executive Director of Fidelity Bank, expressed the bank’s shared commitment to the development of Akwa Ibom State. “We share a common passion for Akwa Ibom State, and we are delighted to join them on this journey,” Ugwuoke remarked.

The newly acquired Airbus A220-300 was purchased from Carlyle Aviation and is part of a larger order that will see nine additional aircraft delivered to Ibom Air over the coming years. The first Airbus A220-300, which joined the fleet in November 2023, has already proven to be a valuable asset, delivering exceptional comfort, safety, and operational efficiency.

Ibom Air, a subsidiary of the Akwa Ibom State Government, is dedicated to setting the standard as Nigeria’s airline of choice, with a strong focus on schedule reliability, on-time departures, and outstanding service. The airline’s current fleet includes seven aircraft: five Bombardier CRJ 900s and two Airbus A220-300s, serving six domestic destinations in Nigeria and Accra, Ghana.