Air Côte d’Ivoire has received its first Airbus A330neo, marking the introduction of the airline’s first widebody aircraft and a significant step in its international expansion strategy. The A330-900 was delivered on September 4, 2025, in Toulouse, France, and will be used to launch long-haul routes to Paris, followed by destinations in the Middle East and North America.
The delivery marks a milestone for the Abidjan-based flag carrier as it expands its fleet and ambitions beyond the African continent. Air Côte d’Ivoire currently serves 22 destinations across West and Central Africa and plans to use the A330neo to enter competitive transcontinental markets.
New Cabin Configuration and Humanitarian Delivery
The newly delivered A330neo is configured in a four-class cabin layout, including 4 First Class seats, 44 in Business, 21 in Premium Economy, and 173 in Economy Class. The aircraft features the Airbus Airspace cabin, designed to enhance passenger comfort with improved individual space, larger overhead bins, new lighting systems, and upgraded in-flight entertainment and connectivity options.
The delivery flight from Toulouse to Abidjan also served a humanitarian purpose, transporting 5 tonnes of relief supplies. The cargo included school materials and other essential goods, coordinated through the Airbus Foundation and supported by Aviation Sans Frontières. The donations were delivered to two Abidjan-based NGOs, LifeShine and la Bienfaisance, which support education and health programs in local communities.
Fleet Growth and Sustainability Goals
The A330neo joins Air Côte d’Ivoire’s fleet as its first widebody aircraft, with a second unit expected to follow. The aircraft is central to the airline’s strategy to enter long-haul markets while maintaining its position as a leading carrier in the region. Airbus reports that more than 1,920 A330 aircraft have been ordered by over 130 customers globally as of July 2025.
The A330neo is capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and Airbus aims to achieve full 100% SAF capability across its aircraft portfolio by 2030. The addition of this aircraft type allows Air Côte d’Ivoire to align with broader sustainability trends in commercial aviation while modernizing its fleet for international service.
The delivery underscores Air Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to scaling its operations and increasing connectivity between West Africa and global markets. The launch of its Paris service using the A330neo will mark its first intercontinental route, with further expansion into the Middle East and North America to follow.
Photo Credit: Airbus SAS 2025
