The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has led a delegation of State Executives and members of the Ibom Air’s management team to a pre-delivery inspection of the airline’s third Airbus A220-300 aircraft at the Airbus production facility in Mirabel, Canada, ahead of its formal delivery and reception in Akwa Ibom.

This is contained in a press statement issued by Aniekan Essienette, the group manager, marketing and communication, Ibom Airlines Limited, on Friday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

According to the statement, the inspection marks another significant milestone in Ibom Air’s fleet modernisation and growth strategy and is part of the acceptance process before the aircraft enters commercial service.

The aircraft is Ibom Air’s third Airbus A220-300 and the second A220 to be received under the airline’s firm order for 10 Airbus A220 aircraft placed in 2021. Its addition marks a further step in Ibom Air’s commitment to expanding capacity, strengthening connectivity, and operating one of Africa’s most modern fleets.

The delegation was received by Guillaume Chevasson, head of the A220 Programme and chief executive officer of Airbus Canada, during the inspection, which formed part of the formal acceptance process ahead of the aircraft’s delivery.

Speaking on the significance of the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, said, “This pre-delivery inspection represents an important milestone in our fleet expansion programme and brings us one step closer to welcoming this aircraft to Nigeria.

“As demand for air travel continues to grow across our markets, we remain focused on investing in modern aircraft that deliver superior operational efficiency, reliability, safety, and passenger comfort.

“The Airbus A220 continues to be the ideal aircraft for our network strategy, and we look forward to deploying this latest addition into our network in furtherance of our growth objectives.”

Eno speaks of govt’s commitment to Ibom Air’s growth

Commenting on the development, Governor Eno, said, “The inspection of this aircraft reflects the state government’s commitment to the continued growth of Ibom Air as a strategic asset for Akwa Ibom State. This investment aligns with the ARISE Agenda and our vision of establishing Akwa Ibom as a leading aviation hub, supported by world-class infrastructure and a modern airline.

“We look forward to formally receiving this aircraft in Akwa Ibom State and to the economic opportunities that enhanced connectivity will create for trade, tourism, investment, and regional development.”

Speaking on the partnership with Ibom Air, Mr Chevasson said they were honoured by Ibom Air’s trust in Airbus and the A220 family.

“The A220 is the ideal aircraft for the airline’s fleet modernisation, thanks to its exceptional operational flexibility, fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and performance across domestic and regional networks, and we look forward to supporting Ibom Air’s continued growth for many years to come,” he said.

The aircraft also incorporates features that further support Ibom Air’s commitment to continuous improvement in operational capability, efficiency, and customer experience.

Upon completion of the delivery processes, the aircraft will be ferried to Nigeria, where it will be officially received into the Ibom Air fleet in Akwa Ibom before commencing commercial operations.