By Joe Udo

As Ibom Air’s latest addition, an A220-300 series aircraft with tail number 5N-CDA, completed its inaugural flight from the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Governor Pastor Umo Eno has lauded the exceptional flying experience offered by the new Airbus. He voiced confidence in the state’s potential to evolve into West Africa’s prominent regional aviation centre.

The A220-300, the first of 10 new Airbus aircraft acquired by the Akwa Ibom State-owned airline, took off on Monday, 29th April 2024, with the governor on board, following thorough inspections and certification by pertinent aviation authorities.

Addressing inquiries from Government House correspondents later, the Governor expressed his satisfaction with the recent milestone achieved by the state-owned airline. He praised the management team led by Captain Mfon Udom for Ibom Air’s remarkable performance in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

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Governor Eno described the in-flight experience aboard the new A220-300 Airbus as exceptional.

Reiterating his administration’s dedication to acquiring the remaining nine aircraft for the State government, he assured that their delivery was imminent.

The Governor highlighted the pride of Akwa Ibom people globally and Nigerian air travellers in Ibom Air, emphasising the State’s commitment to supporting the airline’s vision of emerging as West Africa’s premier regional aviation hub.

“We’re proud to be Akwa Ibomites. We are the first state in this country to fully own an aircraft, not through wet or dry lease. This is our asset. This is just the first of the ten that are on the way. We will position Uyo as a regional aviation hub. It has been a wonderful and enjoyable journey,” Governor Eno affirmed.