Historic Transcontinental Delivery

Captain Ruth Adeola Adebanwo, Chief Pilot of Ibom Air, has added another milestone to her aviation career after flying the airline’s brand-new Airbus A220-300 from Canada to Nigeria. Adebanwo piloted the aircraft from the Airbus facility in Mirabel, Canada, to Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on September 1, covering approximately 8,945 kilometres.

The arrival of the aircraft attracted dignitaries, aviation stakeholders, and residents who gathered at the Uyo airport to receive the latest addition to the Ibom Air fleet. However, attention soon shifted from the aircraft to the woman who had flown it across continents, marking a significant moment for the Nigerian aviation sector.

From Cabin Crew to the Cockpit

Adebanwo, who serves as the Chief Pilot of Ibom Air, was at the controls of the brand-new aircraft as it touched down in Uyo, marking another achievement in her more than two decades in the aviation industry. Reports indicate that this historic flight has made Adebanwo the first woman to fly a brand-new aircraft into Nigeria.

The feat highlights her professional rise, having transitioned from a role as a cabin crew member to heading the flight crew of a Nigerian airline. She did not begin her aviation career in the cockpit but initially served as cabin crew before pursuing her ambition of becoming a pilot, subsequently training in South Africa.

Career Milestones and Industry Impact

Over more than 20 years, Adebanwo has built extensive experience, flying different aircraft types and working with major carriers including Aero Contractors, Arik Air, and Ibom Air. Her professional accomplishments have earned her recognition beyond the airline industry, including being named among the Top 100 Women in Travel and Tourism in Africa.

The September 1 flight represented more than just a fleet expansion for Ibom Air. For Adebanwo, the journey from Mirabel in Canada to Uyo represents a personal career milestone that reinforces the growing role of women in Nigeria's aviation industry. The delivery strengthens Ibom Air's operational capacity while showcasing the progression of female professionals in the field.