Eno leads pre-delivery inspection of Ibom Air’s third Airbus A220-300 aircraft in Canada

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State led a delegation including senior state executives and members of Ibom Air's management team to inspect the airline's third Airbus A220-300 aircraft at Airbus's production facility in Mirabel, Canada. The inspection took place ahead of the aircraft's official delivery and arrival in Akwa Ibom State. The visit was announced in a press release from Ibom Airlines Limited, issued on Friday in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. The inspection is considered a key step in Ibom Air's plan to modernize its fleet and expand its operations. It forms part of the formal acceptance process before the aircraft begins commercial service. This particular aircraft is the third A220-300 ordered by Ibom Air, following a firm order for 10 such aircraft placed in 2021. The acquisition underscores the airline's ongoing efforts to increase its capacity, improve connectivity, and maintain one of Africa's most advanced fleets. During the inspection, the delegation met with Guillaume Chevasson, head of the A220 Programme and CEO of Airbus Canada. The event marked a significant moment in the relationship between Ibom Air and Airbus, highlighting the mutual confidence in the capabilities of the A220 aircraft. George Uriesi, CEO of Ibom Air, emphasized the importance of the pre-delivery inspection in the context of the airline's broader fleet expansion program. He noted that the growing demand for air travel in their market necessitates investments in modern aircraft that ensure operational efficiency, reliability, safety, and passenger comfort. According to Uriesi, the Airbus A220 fits well within Ibom Air's network strategy, and the airline looks forward to integrating this new aircraft into its operations to achieve its growth goals. Governor Eno expressed his government's commitment to supporting Ibom Air's development as a crucial asset for Akwa Ibom State. He stated that the inspection reflected the alignment of the state's priorities with the ARISE Agenda, aiming to establish Akwa Ibom as a prominent aviation hub. Eno anticipated that the formal receipt of the aircraft would bring about economic benefits through improved connectivity, facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and regional development. Chevasson spoke positively about the partnership with Ibom Air, expressing honor at being chosen by the airline. He highlighted the A220's suitability for Ibom Air's fleet modernization due to its flexibility, fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and performance across both domestic and regional routes. He pledged continued support for Ibom Air's growth over the coming years. The aircraft includes features designed to enhance Ibom Air's operational capabilities, efficiency, and customer experience. Once all delivery procedures are completed, the aircraft will be transported to Nigeria, where it will be officially welcomed into the Ibom Air fleet in Akwa Ibom before starting commercial flights. Following the inspection, the focus shifts to the logistics of transporting the aircraft back to Nigeria. The successful completion of these steps will mark the beginning of the aircraft's integration into Ibom Air's operations, contributing to the airline's goal of enhancing its services and expanding its reach across the region.