By Mercy Odeh 

CANANDA/NIGERIA — Ibom Air has taken delivery of its third Airbus A220-300 aircraft, bringing the airline’s total fleet to 10 aircraft as it intensifies its fleet modernisation and expansion programme.

The aircraft, registered 5N-CDC, was formally handed over to the Akwa Ibom State-owned airline on Wednesday at the Airbus A220 final assembly facility in Mirabel, Canada, following the signing of the Transfer of Title documents by the airline’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, George Uriesi.

The latest delivery comprises the second A220-300 delivered under Ibom Air’s firm order for 10 aircraft placed at the Dubai Airshow in 2021.

The airline had received its first factory-new A220 in 2023 and subsequently acquired another A220-300 outright in 2024.

Speaking after the handover ceremony, Uriesi described the delivery as a significant milestone for the airline, saying the new aircraft would contribute to safer, more efficient and passenger-friendly operations.

“We are most delighted to receive the third A220-300 into our growing, modern fleet,” he said, while thanking the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for his support and confidence in the airline.

According to him, the addition of the aircraft would have a “significant positive impact” on the business while providing opportunities for Ibom Air to expand its network and strengthen its position in Nigeria and West Africa.

The Head of the Airbus A220 Programme and Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Canada, Guillaume Chevasson, also congratulated Ibom Air on the delivery.

Chevasson said the A220 was suited to the airline’s fleet modernisation programme because of its operational flexibility, fuel efficiency, passenger comfort and performance on domestic and regional routes.

With the latest delivery, Ibom Air’s fleet now comprises seven CRJ900 regional jets and three Airbus A220-300s, further reducing the average age of its fleet.

The airline said the addition of the new aircraft reinforces its position among operators with relatively young and modern fleets in Nigeria.

Ibom Air, wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, currently serves seven domestic destinations and Accra, Ghana, with its network expected to benefit from the additional capacity.