Ibom Air has completed a pre-delivery inspection of its third Airbus A220-300 at Airbus’ production facility in Mirabel, Canada. The aircraft is the airline’s third A220-300 and the second A220 to be received under its firm order for ten Airbus A220 aircraft placed in 2021. The milestone moves the airline closer to another major fleet expansion as it prepares to receive the aircraft in Akwa Ibom.
The inspection was led by Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, alongside state officials and members of Ibom Air’s management team. Meanwhile, Head of the A220 Programme and Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Canada, Guillaume Chevasson, received the delegation at the Mirabel facility. The exercise forms part of the formal acceptance process before delivery and subsequent entry into commercial service.
In a statement signed by Group Manager, Marketing and Communication, Ibom Airlines Limited, Aniekan Essienette, the aircraft represents another important step in the carrier’s growth strategy. Its arrival will strengthen capacity, connectivity and fleet modernisation. In addition, the aircraft will support Ibom Air’s ambition to operate one of Africa’s most modern fleets.
Inspection Marks Major Ibom Air Fleet Milestone
The inspection also brought together key representatives of Ibom Air and Airbus as both sides reviewed the aircraft before delivery. Chief Executive Officer, Ibom Air, George Uriesi, described the process as an important milestone for the airline’s expansion programme.
“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.”
Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, said the development reinforces government’s commitment to Ibom Air as a strategic state asset.
“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.”
Airbus Highlights A220 Efficiency
Head of the A220 Programme and Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Canada, Guillaume Chevasson, said Airbus valued its partnership with Ibom Air. He also highlighted the aircraft’s operational flexibility and efficiency.
“We are 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.”
The Airbus A220-300 is designed for the 120-to-160-seat market and combines advanced technology with fuel efficiency. Airbus says the A220 delivers up to 25% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emissions per seat than previous-generation aircraft. The manufacturer also highlights its spacious cabin, wide seats and large windows.
The aircraft’s arrival will further strengthen Ibom Air’s modern fleet and support its network expansion plans. Upon completion of the delivery process, it will be ferried to Nigeria for formal reception in Akwa Ibom State. It will then enter commercial operations after the required processes are completed.
Ibom Air currently operates Bombardier CRJ900s and Airbus A220-300s across its network. The new aircraft will increase the number of A220s in its fleet to three. The airline’s earlier A220 deployment marked a major shift towards newer aircraft and greater operating efficiency.
The latest inspection therefore signals more than an aircraft acceptance milestone. It represents another investment in capacity, connectivity and passenger experience. For Akwa Ibom, the aircraft also forms part of a wider aviation ambition centred on stronger regional links and economic development.
