Ibom Air Boost Fleet As It Takes Delivery Of Second Airbus A220-300
By Emmanuel Uffot
Ibom Air has taken delivery of its second Airbus A220-300 aircraft. According to the airline’s GM Marketing and Communication Aniekan Essienette, the aircraft arrived Nigeria through the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos and was formally received in Akwa Ibom by the Akwa Ibom State Government, that is the major shareholder on received the aircraft August 20th, 2024, at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The acquisition according to the airline, aligns with its strategic goal of rapidly increasing capacity and expanding its route network.
The Airbus A220-300, is said to be attractive to many airlines for its fuel efficiency, environmental sustainability, and passenger comfort.
Essienette explained that the acquisition will enable Ibom Air to increase flight frequencies on existing routes and expand to new destinations.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Ibom Air, Pastor Imoabasi Jacob, saluted the resilience and doggedness of Ibom’s management and the strong support of Pastor Umo Eno.
Speaking in the same vein, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, expressed his enthusiasm for the development, stating that the arrival of the 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’s CEO, Mr. Mfon Udom, a renowned pilot and former director of the defunct ADC Airlines, emphasized the significance of this addition to the fleet thus “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 who continue to partner with Ibom Air, especially Fidelity Bank and Union Bank.
“We appreciate the tremendous support shown to us by our valued customers recently as we bore through flight disruption. We are committed to delivering remarkable improvements moving forward.
The Executive Director of Fidelity Bank, Kevin Ugwuoke, who represented the CEO, remarked on behalf of the consortium of financiers: “We share a common passion for Akwa Ibom state, and we are delighted to join them on this journey.”
The Airbus A220-300 we gathered was acquired from Carlyle Aviation, adding to the nine remaining aircraft scheduled for delivery in the coming years. The first A220-300 in the fleet, delivered in November 2023 has already demonstrated exceptional comfort, safety, and operational efficiency.
Ibom Air, the brainchild of former Governor Udom Emmanuel, holds the record as the only airline wholly owned by a state Government currently in operation. Ibom Air’s fleet comprises seven aircraft, made up of five Bombardier CRJ 900s and two Airbus A220-300s.
It currently serves six domestic destinations in Nigeria which include Lagos and Abuja and Accra, Ghana.
