Akwa Ibom Plans A220-300 Purchase, Targets 10-Aircraft Ibom Air Fleet

The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced plans to expand the fleet of its state-owned airline, Ibom Air, with the acquisition of an Airbus A220-300 aircraft.

The Commissioner for Information, Dr Aniekan Umanah, disclosed this to journalists in Uyo, saying the state government would travel to Montreal, Canada, to finalise documentation for the purchase.

Umanah said the aircraft is expected to arrive at the Victor Attah International Airport on August 30, 2026, bringing Ibom Air’s fleet to 10 aircraft.

He described the planned acquisition as a milestone for the state’s aviation sector, adding that it supports the government’s ambition of positioning Akwa Ibom as a major aviation hub for business, tourism and investment under its ARISE Agenda.

The commissioner also identified tourism as a major driver of the state’s economy outside crude oil revenues, saying the government remained committed to developing the sector.

He said the expansion of Ibom Air would improve connectivity and create opportunities for young people seeking careers in aviation, while strengthening links for businesses and families.

According to him, the arrival of the Airbus A220-300 would further demonstrate the state government’s commitment to improving connectivity and supporting economic growth.