Ibom Air’s anticipated Airbus A220-300 arrival
Ibom Air, a Nigerian carrier based in Uyo, is eagerly awaiting the arrival of its first Airbus A220-300 aircraft in November. This delivery is slightly delayed, but the airline remains committed to its expansion plans.
A Growing Fleet: Ibom Air’s Strategy
The airline has ambitious plans to integrate three more A220s into its fleet before October 2024. Subsequently, it intends to maintain a regular schedule of quarterly deliveries until 2025. This strategic move is aimed at meeting the surging demand and enhancing capacity in Nigeria’s domestic air travel market.
Proven Success: Leased A220s
Ibom Air’s decision to acquire ten Airbus A220s is influenced by the success of its leased A220s from Air Sinai, which operated under the Egyptian flag carrier EgyptAir. These aircraft made a significant impact on Nigeria’s domestic air travel market when they were introduced in August 2021.
Capacity Crunch and the Airbus A220 Solution
George Uriesi, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Ibom Air, shed light on the airline’s decision-making process. He explained that in the first half of 2021, the airline faced a significant capacity crunch due to its growing popularity. To meet this rising demand, they explored options for larger aircraft and ultimately settled on the Airbus A220.
A Boost for Uyo’s Victor Attah International Airport
The introduction of the Airbus A220 is poised to strengthen Ibom Air’s operations from Uyo’s Victor Attah International Airport (QUO). It will provide the much-needed capacity for this rapidly expanding carrier. Currently, Ibom Air operates five Bombardier CRJ700 regional jets and two Airbus A320-200s on wet lease from GetJet Airlines.
Rapid Growth and Domestic Routes
Despite being in operation for only four years, Ibom Air has already made significant strides. The airline presently offers services on 11 routes connecting six cities across Nigeria, including Uyo, Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV), and Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos. Despite initial ambitions to expand into other African countries, the airline has focused primarily on domestic routes due to capacity constraints.
Ibom Air’s Exclusive Focus on Africa
Following the arrival of the new A220s, Ibom Air plans to resume its international expansion efforts, although it has ruled out intercontinental operations. George Uriesi emphasized the airline’s commitment to operating exclusively within Africa, allowing it to stay competitive on routes with growth potential and profitability.
Remarkable Success in Just Four Years
Since its launch in 2019, Ibom Air has achieved remarkable milestones. The carrier has served over 2.5 million passengers and conducted approximately 35,000 flights, surpassing its initial growth projections. It has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most profitable airlines, a testament to the collaborative efforts of its dedicated team members.
Ibom Air’s journey is set to continue with the impending arrival of the Airbus A220-300, paving the way for further expansion and success in Nigeria’s dynamic aviation industry.
For more information about Ibom Air and its future plans, you can visit Ibom Air’s official website https://www.ibomair.com
