IbomAir Acquires New Airbus A220-300 to Enhance Operations

Governor Umo Eno Inspects New Aircraft and Visits Cadets in Europe

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, recently embarked on a significant trip to Europe, focusing on the advancement of IbomAir and the future of aviation in the state. During his visit to the Samco Aviation Maintenance Facility in Maastricht, Netherlands, Governor Eno inspected the newly acquired Airbus A220-300 series aircraft. This acquisition, sourced from Carlyle Aviation, is a strategic move to bolster IbomAir’s capacity and cater to the increasing number of passengers who favor the airline. Captain Mfon Udom, CEO of IbomAir, emphasized the importance of this addition in meeting the burgeoning demand while awaiting the delivery of previously ordered planes from Airbus.

In Maastricht, Governor Eno also engaged in high-level discussions with top Airbus executives. The meeting included Grainne van den Berg, Vice President, Marketing-Africa & Middle East, and Hadi Akoum, Vice President Sales-Africa. The dialogue centered on the delivery schedules for the remaining aircraft ordered by IbomAir during the 2021 Dubai Airshow. Airbus representatives lauded the state government's commitment to aviation infrastructure, particularly the Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and expressed interest in assessing the facility for potential partnership opportunities.

Governor Eno's European tour also included a visit to the Airbus Flight Academy in Angouleme, where he made a surprise visit to 15 cadets from Akwa Ibom State. The cadets, who are undergoing training, expressed their gratitude for the state's investment in their education and future careers. Governor Eno encouraged them to stay diligent and dedicated, stating, “I’m glad to see your dedication. Life is an endurance trek that you must face head-on. We are committed to ensuring you achieve the best and look forward to celebrating your success.” Captain Udom also acknowledged the Governor’s steadfast support for the cadets, highlighting the positive impact this will have on both the aviation industry and the state.

Governor Eno praised IbomAir for its growth and adherence to its business plan. He expressed satisfaction with the new aircraft acquisition, noting, “This addition will further strengthen our airline, which is already performing well. Our administration will continue to support IbomAir.” According to George Uriese, Chief Operating Officer of IbomAir, the new aircraft will arrive in Nigeria soon after the completion of the necessary paperwork. The Governor was accompanied by several key officials, including the Chief Whip of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chief Effiong Johnson, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom SAN, members of the State Executive Council, and representatives from IbomAir and the Akwa Ibom Business Forum.