Air Côte d’Ivoire launches its first-ever intercontinental route with Abidjan-Paris
Air Côte d’Ivoire is soon to make history. The national carrier of Côte d’Ivoire is preparing to debut nonstop service between Abidjan and Paris this September. It will mark the airline’s first European destination and a milestone in its young history.
The route is expected to begin on September 18 with the airline’s new Airbus A330-900neo. The aircraft will be officially delivered on August 29. The A330 is in fact the first wide-body ever acquired by an Ivorian carrier. It will operate daily between Abidjan’s Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle.
Regional growth
The launch follows a series of regional network expansions earlier this year. Since January, Air Côte d’Ivoire has reinforced its presence in West Africa with additional frequencies on the Niamey and Ouagadougou corridor. A combined Abidjan–Niamey–Ouagadougou–Abidjan loop was introduced in January with twice-weekly flights, gradually ramping up during the spring and summer to near-daily service by June. The carrier also launched 3 weekly services in April on Abidjan – Bamako – Conakry. However, Air Côte d’Ivoire pulled out from Casablanca in early June.
For CEO Laurent Loukou, the Paris launch represents both a symbolic and strategic step. “For the first time in our history, Air Côte d’Ivoire will operate a long-haul aircraft, capable for intercontinental travel. We see this as a gift to the nation during our independence celebrations,” he said.
Loukou noted the project has been in development since 2017, finalized in 2022, and is now becoming a reality.
Configured in four classes—First, Business, Premium, and Economy—the A330-900neo underscores the airline’s ambition to compete internationally. Premium amenities will include 32-inch LED screens integrating Bluetooth in First Class. Business class passengers will enjoy programs on a 17-inch LED screens in Business. The aircraft is a showcase of comfort and innovation designed to appeal to both business and leisure travelers.
Air Côte d’Ivoire is now waiting for a second A330-900neo which would help boosting its intercontinental network.
With its Paris launch, Air Côte d’Ivoire strengthens its role as a West African hub while positioning Abidjan as a gateway between the region and Europe.
TravelMole Editorial Team
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