Air Côte D’Ivoire, the national airline of Ivory Coast based in Abidjan, has signed a firm order for two A320neo and two A320 aircraft. The agreement makes Air Côte D’Ivoire the first African airline to order the A320neo. The airline’s first purchase agreement directly with Airbus also makes Air Côte D’Ivoire a new customer.
Air Côte D’Ivoire has selected CFM engines for its A320 fleet. The aircraft will feature a two-class cabin layout. Air Côte D’Ivoire currently operates five Airbus aircraft on lease; 4 A319s and 1 A320.
“With these new aircraft Air Côte d’Ivoire will position itself as a flagship airline in the region by offering its passengers the best on-board services. Air Côte d’Ivoire will also improve its punctuality and reliability thanks to these latest-generation Airbus aircraft,” said General Abdoulaye Coulibaly, Chairman of the Board.
“We are very pleased to welcome Air Côte D’Ivoire as our first customer for the A320neo in Africa. Our A320neo and A320 will offer Air Côte D’Ivoire the lowest operational costs and the highest seat comfort and widest cabins for its passengers. This order will play a key role in the development of Air Côte D’Ivoire with new routes to West and Central Africa,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.