New Airbus aircraft signals consistency, expansion of Ibom Air, says Eno

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has lauded the arrival of a new Airbus aircraft for the state-owned airline, Ibom Air, describing it as a significant achievement that underscores his administration's commitment to expanding the airline and bolstering the aviation sector.

Governor Eno highlighted that this acquisition represents the third Airbus aircraft procured since his administration took office in 2023. Combined with two other fully paid-for aircraft, this brings the total number of new additions to Ibom Air's fleet to five, demonstrating a consistent investment strategy in aviation.

The governor emphasized the broader implications of this expansion, stating that it is crucial not only for Ibom Air but also for Akwa Ibom State's ambition to develop a robust aviation ecosystem. He anticipates that the fully operational aviation sector, including the nearing completion of the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Aviation Village, will be a significant driver of job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and economic growth for the state.

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The new aircraft speaks volumes, not just for Ibom Air, but for Akwa Ibom State as we seek to expand the airline. It shows consistency. This is the third Airbus aircraft since we came into office in 2023, while we have also fully paid for two aircraft. So, we have done five aircraft, and that shows consistency.

"When all of this ecosystem begins to function the way it should, you’ll see the jobs it is going to create, the foreign exchange earnings it’s going to bring and, of course, the effect on our GDP as a state," Governor Eno remarked, expressing optimism that these investments will translate into tangible benefits and an improved quality of life for the residents.

The new aircraft, an Airbus A220-300, is expected to enhance Ibom Air's capacity and support its network expansion plans, improving connectivity within Nigeria and potentially beyond. This development follows Governor Eno's recent visit to Montreal, Canada, for the pre-delivery inspection of the aircraft. The airline's fleet is set to grow to 10 aircraft upon its arrival.

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When all of this ecosystem begins to function the way it should, you’ll see the jobs it is going to create, the foreign exchange earnings it’s going to bring and, of course, the effect on our GDP as a state.