BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has applauded Ibom Air for the audacious order of 10 Airbus A220-300 jetliners, which first delivery happened on Friday.
Onyema, who was excited by the expansion of Ibom Air’s fleet, noted that Nigerian carriers are resilient and growing despite the odds stacked against them.
He said this was the first time in the history of aviation in Nigeria that different domestic carriers are ordering brand new airplanes to fortify their operations.
“This signifies a new dawn for air transport in Nigeria. With more fleet, Nigerian carriers would create more jobs for the citizens, contribute to the nation’s GDP and burnish their desire to become preeminent in the market, airlifting more Nigerians to local and international destinations at affordable airfares.
“May God Almighty be praised in the highest for this feat and everything. May Ibom Air and, indeed, all indigenous airlines in Nigeria continue to prosper. “These airlines have given means of livelihood to thousands of Nigerians who were hitherto unemployed. God will continue to support Nigerian carriers. I wish all of us permanent safe flights and permanent safe landings forever, in God’s name, amen”.
The former Governor of Akwa Ibom state, Udom Emmanuel, the CEO Mfon Udom, and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the airline, George Uriesi attended the handover ceremony at Airbus’ facility in Canada.
Airbus executives, including the President and CEO, Benoît Schultz, handed over the Airbus A220-300 to Ibom Air.
He highlighted the aircraft’s global recognition for fuel efficiency, cutting-edge technology, and comfort.
Airbus said the A220 is adapted for short and medium haul commercial operations with a range of up to seven hours.
This makes it a good equipment to drive Ibom Air’s route expansion agenda across diverse African destinations.
CEO of the airline, Mr. Mfon Udom, emphasized the game-changing impact of the Airbus A220-300. He said it reinforces Ibom Air’s commitment to provide world-class services.
“The introduction of the Airbus A220-300 to our fleet is a game-changing leap forward for Ibom Air. Our commitment to invest in a fleet of efficient aircraft underscores our determination to provide world-class airline services,” he said.
The airline said that as it continues on its growth plan, passengers can expect superior travel experience, adding that Ibom’s world-class on board services, schedule reliability, and on time departures will continue to be its priority.
Ibom Air said it remains dedicated to providing unparalleled air travel experiences in this new phase of expansion.
