Ibom Air ends wet-leased aircraft operations

Ini Billie, Uyo

Ibom Air said it has ended its wet-leased aircraft operations following the delivery of its brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft.

Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Ibom Air, Mr George Uriesi said the lease arrangement for the two wet-leased Airbus A320s was to meet the growing demand for its services.

In a press release signed by Ibom Air’s General Manager, Marketing and Communication, Aniekan Essienette, on Tuesday in Uyo, the COO stated that the end of the wet-leased arrangement will result in a reduced flight schedule as the first two A220s are phased into service.

He apologised for the inconvenience the transition would cause its customers, saying the A220-300 aircraft consumes 25 per cent less fuel than other aircraft in its category and offers comfort, safety and environmental friendliness.

“We resorted to wet leasing aircraft to meet the growing demand for our product, while we worked on our fleet growth program. Now with these aircraft being delivered, it is time for us to benefit from the significant operating efficiencies and enhanced service the A220-300 brings to the business.

“The A220 could not have come to Ibom Air at a better time when the airline business in Nigeria badly needs operationally efficient aircraft that consume 25% less fuel than other aircraft in its category while offering class-leading comfort, safety and environmental friendliness.

“The transition from the wet-leased aircraft will result in a reduced flight schedule for a few weeks as the first two A220s are phased into service.

“We apologize in advance for any inconvenience our reduced schedule may cause as we transition into a period of better and stable all-round service, with this new equipment,” he stated.