By Sandra Chukwunyere
Ibom Air has proudly welcomed the arrival of its second Airbus A220-300 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s growth and expansion plans. The new aircraft touched down at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on August 10, 2024, before being formally received today by the Akwa Ibom State Government at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo.
In a statement by GM Marketing, and Communication,Aniekan Essienette , he explained that this latest acquisition is in line with Ibom Air’s strategic goal of boosting capacity and expanding its route network across Nigeria and beyond. The Airbus A220-300, known for its fuel efficiency, environmental sustainability, and passenger comfort, will enable Ibom Air to increase flight frequencies on existing routes while also venturing into new destinations.
During the welcoming ceremony, Pastor Imoabasi Jacob, Chairman of Ibom Air, praised the airline’s management for their dedication and resilience. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of Pastor Umo Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
Governor Umo Eno expressed his enthusiasm for the addition, 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.”
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Ibom Air’s CEO, Mr. Mfon Udom, highlighted the significance of this new aircraft in meeting the growing demand for the airline’s services. “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,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the consortium of financiers, Kevin Ugwuoke, Executive Director of Fidelity Bank, expressed shared enthusiasm for Akwa Ibom State’s aviation ambitions. “We share a common passion for Akwa Ibom State, and we are delighted to join them on this journey,” Ugwuoke remarked.
This new Airbus A220-300, acquired from Carlyle Aviation, is the second of ten Airbus aircraft planned for Ibom Air’s fleet. The first A220-300, delivered in November 2023, has already set a high standard for comfort, safety, and operational efficiency.
Ibom Air, fully owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, continues to establish itself as the airline of choice for passengers by focusing on schedule reliability, on-time departures, and excellent service. The airline’s growing fleet now includes five Bombardier CRJ 900s and two Airbus A220-300s, serving six domestic destinations in Nigeria and Accra, Ghana.
