Air Côte d’Ivoire Furthers Regional Expansion Plans

An Air Côte d'Ivoire Airbus A320 on the tarmac.
Sm105, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Air Côte d’Ivoire, the national carrier of Côte d’Ivoire has received a recent boost for its development plans. A recent negotiation has seen a finance injection by Investec South Africa.

This collaboration firstly involves the refinancing of an existing facility for a single Airbus A320. It will also provide the financing for the acquisition of two additional Airbus A319 aircraft.

This strategic partnership is designed to empower Air Côte d’Ivoire’s ambitious growth plans within Africa.

Recognizing the vast potential for improved regional connectivity, Investec’s financial solutions are tailored to fuel the airline’s expansion.

Building on Past Relationship

The partnership builds upon a successful relationship established in 2017. This marked the first investment, with Investec financing Air Côte d’Ivoire’s very first Airbus commercial aircraft.

The recent transaction included a foreign exchange facility to address the US dollar requirements associated with the aircraft purchase.

Air Côte d’Ivoire boasts a continuously IOSA-certified record since 2017. Their current fleet of nine aircraft has grown to twelve with Investec’s support. In addition, a thirteenth aircraft is expected by year’s end.

Éric Pajaud, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The airline offers vital connections for domestic and international passengers across 18 countries, with a network spanning 20 routes.

Furthermore, Air Côte d’Ivoire recently placed an order for two A330neo aircraft scheduled for delivery in December 2024.

This addition positions the airline for exciting ventures into long-haul flights, solidifying their role as a key player in regional aviation.

Beyond its extensive regional network, Air Côte d’Ivoire plays a critical role in fostering economic activity within Côte d’Ivoire itself.

The airline provides vital connections to five key domestic destinations, promoting development in remote areas.

Stakeholder Comments

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with Air Côte d’Ivoire and contribute to their continued success,” said Thato Matsha, Aviation Finance consultant at Investec South Africa.

“This collaboration allows us to play a vital role in enabling the airline’s expansion and enhancing regional connectivity across Africa. Ultimately, this fosters economic growth throughout the continent,” Matsha concluded.

Setié Aubin Konan, Head of Long-Term Financings at Air Côte d’Ivoire, expressed his appreciation: “The opportunity to acquire these additional aircraft is exciting, and this transaction underscores the strength of our long-standing partnership with Investec.”

“Their support has been instrumental in propelling our expansion and modernization efforts, including the vital rejuvenation of our fleet.” Konan further emphasized.

“Investec’s adaptability and their keen understanding of our specific needs were essential factors in facilitating this expansion and supporting our regional growth strategy.”

Air Côte d’Ivoire: Rising as a Regional Leader

Air Côte d’Ivoire, the national carrier of Côte d’Ivoire, took flight in 2012, following the dissolution of the previous national airline, Air Ivoire.

Despite its relatively young age, the airline has established itself as a major player in West and Central African aviation.

The airline boasts a continuously IOSA-certified safety record since 2017, demonstrating its commitment to the highest safety standards.

Air Côte d’Ivoire’s current fleet of twelve aircraft, with one more on the way by year’s end, predominantly consists of Airbus models, including A320s and A319s.

These aircraft serve a network of 20 routes across 18 countries, offering vital connections for both domestic and international passengers.

Looking ahead, Air Côte d’Ivoire has ambitious plans to further expand its reach. The recent acquisition of two additional A319s and an upcoming order for A330neo widebody aircraft signifies the airline’s venture into long-haul flights.

This expansion strategy positions the national airline to solidify its role as a key regional leader, fostering economic growth and connectivity across Africa.

In addition to its international operations, the carrier plays a significant role in the domestic development of Côte d’Ivoire.

The airline provides crucial air links to five key domestic destinations, promoting economic activity in previously remote areas.


Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.

Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!

TAGGED:
By Len Varley - Assistant Editor 5 Min Read
5 Min Read
Facebook
X
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Pinterest
Reddit
Threads
XING
Skype
You Might Also Enjoy