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Air Côte d’Ivoire has taken delivery of its first-ever Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, marking a new chapter in the history of Ivorian aviation. The handover ceremony took place on September 3, 2025, in Toulouse, France, and was attended by top Ivorian dignitaries, including the First Lady, Mrs. Dominique Ouattara, Minister of Transport Amadou Koné, Minister of Communication Amadou Coulibaly, and Minister of Culture and Francophonie Françoise Remarck.
The colorful and emotional ceremony was described as a proud moment for the country. In her remarks, the First Lady expressed delight at the milestone, stressing that the new acquisition represents a breakthrough for Côte d’Ivoire’s aviation industry. “For the first time in our history, our country is acquiring a latest-generation, energy-efficient, connected wide-body aircraft that offers travel comfort equal to the world’s largest airlines,” Mrs. Ouattara declared. She added that the new aircraft would improve accessibility, strengthen the country’s presence on the international aviation map, and make it easier for Ivorians to connect with other continents. She also highlighted the economic opportunities it could create, particularly for young entrepreneurs and business communities.
Minister of Transport Amadou Koné, who oversees the airline sector, used the occasion to commend President Alassane Ouattara for his leadership and vision. He noted that the government’s policies have provided the right environment for Air Côte d’Ivoire to thrive. “After its launch only 13 years ago, on May 12, 2012, Air Côte d’Ivoire has become the leading airline in West Africa for several years, carrying more than half of the total passenger traffic in the region,” the minister stated. He stressed that launching long-haul routes is a crucial step to support economic growth and ensure the airline’s sustainability.
Before him, the Chairman of Air Côte d’Ivoire’s Board of Directors, General Abdoulaye Coulibaly, and Airbus executive Gabriel Semelas, President of Africa and the Caribbean division, gave details of the aircraft. They explained that the Airbus A330-900neo, regarded as the flagship of Airbus’s long-haul range, was well-suited to the ambitions of Côte d’Ivoire. The plane is fitted with 242 passenger seats in four categories: 4 in First Class, 44 in Business Class, 21 in Premium Class, and 173 in Economy Class. It also has a large-capacity baggage compartment, making it ideal for long-distance travel.
The Airbus A330-900neo is known for its advanced technology, reduced fuel consumption, and lower carbon emissions compared to older aircraft models. It is also designed for passenger comfort, with modern onboard entertainment and digital systems that meet international aviation standards.
Industry experts believe this acquisition will boost Côte d’Ivoire’s aviation competitiveness. With the A330-900neo, Air Côte d’Ivoire can expand its routes to Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, thereby positioning itself among major African carriers such as Ethiopian Airlines, EgyptAir, Kenya Airways, and South African Airways. The aircraft’s fuel efficiency is expected to reduce operational costs, while its passenger capacity will help the airline compete better in both regional and international markets.
For Côte d’Ivoire, the aircraft represents more than just an addition to the national fleet. It demonstrates the country’s determination to strengthen its transport infrastructure, expand tourism, and attract foreign investors. A strong aviation sector also means easier movement of goods, services, and people, which is vital for trade and economic integration in West Africa and across the continent.
The acquisition also reflects a growing trend among African airlines to modernize fleets with more fuel-efficient aircraft. Aviation experts note that as African economies grow, demand for long-haul international travel is also rising, making investments like this one critical for national carriers to remain competitive.
The delivery of the Airbus A330-900neo marks the beginning of a new era for Air Côte d’Ivoire. It is not just an upgrade in equipment but a symbol of ambition, national pride, and economic potential. For passengers, it promises world-class travel comfort, while for the nation, it represents progress, modernization, and global recognition.
