Air Côte d’Ivoire receives the first of two Airbus A330-900

Air Côte d’Ivoire has taken delivery of its first Airbus A330-900, marking the introduction of a widebody aircraft to the airline’s fleet. The handover occurred on September 4, and follows the company’s order for two A330neo aircraft.

The addition of the A330neo allows Air Côte d’Ivoire, the largest airline in West and Central Africa, to expand its network beyond the continent. Initial long-haul operations are set to begin with flights from Abidjan to Paris, with further routes planned to the Middle East and North America.

Configured in four classes, the A330-900 delivered to Air Côte d’Ivoire features seating for one passenger in First Class, 44 in Business Class, 21 in Premium Economy, and 173 in Economy, reflecting a focus on both premium and high-capacity segments.

On its delivery flight from Toulouse to Abidjan, the aircraft carried five tonnes of humanitarian aid, including educational materials and supplies. The initiative was conducted in partnership with the Airbus Foundation and with support from Aviation Sans Frontières. The items were distributed to two local NGOs, LifeShine and la Bienfaisance, supporting health and education projects in Abidjan.

The A330neo family had accumulated 449 firm orders by July 2025, reflecting sustained demand for the type. Air Côte d’Ivoire’s current fleet also includes five Airbus A319s, three Airbus A320s — one of which is an A320neo — and four De Havilland Canada DHC-8-400 turboprops.

With the arrival of its first widebody, Air Côte d’Ivoire is positioned to broaden its international presence and potentially increase connectivity between West Africa and intercontinental destinations. The second A330-900 is expected to join the fleet at a later date, supporting further network development.

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