Air Côte d’Ivoire announced plans to start direct flights to Morocco, marking a key milestone in the airline’s incredible history, which includes an astounding turnover of 992 billion CFA francs during the previous 11 years.
During a media briefing on Thursday, January 25, in Abidjan, Laurent Loukou, the Managing Director of Air Côte d’Ivoire, shared the airline’s achievements over the past decade and outlined its future prospects.
Established in May 2012, the airline, envisioned by President Alassane Ouattara, has not only played a pivotal role in the nation’s economic recovery but has also secured a dominant market share, surpassing 50%.
“Having transported 6.7 million passengers, the airline has created 586 direct jobs and 3,000 indirect jobs from 2013 to 2023,” Loukou proudly stated.
He also highlighted the airline’s punctuality rate, noting, “In 2023, Air Côte d’Ivoire achieved a 67% punctuality rate, compared to the world average of 77%, with the long-term objective set at 85%.”
Joined by Chairman of the Board of Directors, General Abdoulaye Coulibaly, and Airbus Vice-President Hadi Akoum, Loukou emphasised Air Côte d’Ivoire’s profitability and growth trajectory.
Following the successful launch of the Johannesburg route in July 2022 and with Cape Verde on the horizon, the airline anticipates commencing direct flights to Casablanca, Morocco, from April 15, 2024, operating four flights per week.
General Abdoulaye Coulibaly, the President of the board of directors, encouraged the staff to maintain excellent customer service standards that prioritise passenger safety.
This strategic move aligns with Air Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to expanding its international reach and solidifying its position as a key player in Africa’s aviation landscape.