By Dickson Omobola

Akwa Ibom State Government-owned airline, Ibom Air, has pledged commitment to increasing flight frequencies on existing routes, saying the procurement and arrival of its second Airbus A220-300 aircraft will enable them to reach the objective.

GM Marketing and Communication of Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienette, said the acquisition aligned with Ibom Air’s strategic goal of rapidly increasing capacity and expanding its route network.

Essienette also stated that the Akwa Ibom State Government has formally received the aircraft today at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The statement reads: “The Airbus A220-300, celebrated for its fuel efficiency, environmental sustainability, and passenger comfort, will enable Ibom Air to increase flight frequencies on existing routes and expand to new destinations.

“While giving his welcome remark, the Chairman of Ibom Air, Pastor Imoabasi Jacob, saluted the resilience and doggedness of Ibom’s management and the strong support of Pastor Umo Eno. His Excellency, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, expressed his enthusiasm for this development, stating: ‘the arrival of our second Airbus A220 reiterates the state’s unwavering commitment to advancing our aviation sector.

“This addition aligns with our strategic vision for Ibom Air and supports the economic growth and development of Akwa Ibom State by enhancing air travel and connectivity, creating job opportunities, and boosting tourism. Ibom Air’s CEO, Mr. Mfon Udom, emphasized the significance of this addition to the fleet. ‘We are thrilled to welcome our second wholly owned Airbus A220. This aircraft will significantly boost our capacity in response to the growing service demand. A special thanks to the Nigerian financial institutions who continue to partner with Ibom Air, especially Fidelity Bank and Union Bank. We appreciate the tremendous support shown to us by our valued customers recently as we bore through flight disruption. We are committed to delivering remarkable improvements moving forward’.

“The Executive Director of Fidelity Bank, Kevin Ugwuoke, who represented the CEO, remarked on behalf of the consortium of financiers: “We share a common passion for Akwa Ibom state, and we are delighted to join them on this journey. This Airbus A220-300 was acquired from Carlyle Aviation, adding to the nine remaining aircraft scheduled for delivery in the coming years. The first A220-300 in the fleet, delivered in November 2023, has already demonstrated exceptional comfort, safety, and operational efficiency.”