Air Côte d’Ivoire Takes Delivery of First A330neo and anounces flights to Paris

New Wide-Body Arrival

On 4 September 2025, Air Côte d’Ivoire received its first Airbus A330-900neo, marking a historic milestone as the airline’s first-ever wide-body aircraft and a foundational step in its long-haul expansion strategy. Configured with a sophisticated four-class cabin featuring 4 first-class seats, 44 business-class seats, 21 premium economy seats, and 173 economy seats, the 242-seat aircraft introduces a new level of onboard comfort. It features the Airbus Airspace cabin, which includes enhanced lighting, larger overhead storage, and modern in-flight entertainment systems.

The acquisition of the A330neos has been made possible through substantial financial backing: a $76.6 million loan from the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, complemented by support from the West African Development Bank.

New Routes to Paris and Beyond

Starting 18 September 2025, Air Côte d’Ivoire will inaugurate daily flights between Abidjan (ABJ) and Paris–Charles de Gaulle (CDG), operated using the new A330-900neo aircraft. This maiden European route signals the airline’s ambition to challenge entrenched carriers on the Abidjan–Paris corridor, namely Air France and Corsair, and to drive more competitive fares for Ivorian travelers.

Looking ahead, the addition of a second A330-900neo will support further expansion to major intercontinental destinations, including New York, London, Brussels, Geneva, and Washington, D.C. Air Côte d’Ivoire’s foray into long-haul travel with the A330-900neo goes beyond route expansion; it heralds a new era of regional connectivity, economic opportunity, and passenger comfort.