Press Release
AFI KLM E&M and Air Côte d'Ivoire Extend Component Support Contract and Expands Airbus Fleet to Enhance Global Reach
Paris, Amstelveen, Abidjan – 11th of February 2025 – Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M), is pleased to announce the extension of its component support contract with Air Côte d'Ivoire, the flag carrier of Ivory Coast, for an additional five years. This strategic partnership will facilitate the airline's ambitious fleet expansion and international route development. Under the renewed agreement, Air Côte d'Ivoire will expand its Airbus fleet from five A320 aircraft to eight A320 (CEO and NEO) and add two A330 NEO aircraft. This significant fleet enhancement will be supported by AFI KLM E&M, with the launch of the A330 NEO planned for the end of 2025. The contract renewal ensures continuation of component support for Air Côte d'Ivoire's growing Airbus fleet.
Air Côte d'Ivoire's expansion is a key element of its strategy to strengthen its position in the aviation market. The airline will significantly increase its presence in West & Central Africa and introduce new international destinations to Europe, starting with flights to Paris CDG. This development is expected to boost tourism and business travel between Ivory Coast and Europe, fostering stronger economic ties.
M. Y. Dakouri, Head of Fleet Management at Air Côte d'Ivoire, stated about the extended partnership: "This contract extension with AFI KLM E&M marks a crucial milestone for Air Côte d'Ivoire. Their expertise and support are vital as we expand our regional network in West Africa and open new international routes, notably to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). This collaboration will enable us to enhance our service quality and operational efficiency, ensuring a seamless travel experience for our passengers."
Aymeric Mechin, Vice President Commercial Middle East & Africa of Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance said; "We are delighted to continue our partnership with Air Côte d'Ivoire and support their fleet expansion and international growth strategy. Our teams are dedicated to providing top-notch component support and maintenance services that will help Air Côte d'Ivoire achieve their operational goals and deliver exceptional service to their customers. This extended contract underscores the mutual trust and strong collaboration between our companies."
About Air Côte d'Ivoire:
Air Côte d'Ivoire, established on 15 May 2012 and commencing operations on 12 November 2012, is a private-public entity partially owned by Air France. As the flag carrier of Ivory Coast, the airline is committed to providing reliable and high-quality air travel services. The fleet expansion and route diversification are part of Air Côte d'Ivoire's long-term growth plan to meet the increasing demand for air travel and to offer more connectivity options to its passengers.
About AFI KLM E&M
Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance is a major multi-product MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) provider. With a workforce of over 12,800, AFI KLM E&M offers comprehensive technical support for airlines, ranging from engineering and line maintenance to engine overhaul, aero structure, and fan thrust reverser support, as well as the management, repair, and supply of aircraft components, structured around a powerful logistics network. AFI KLM E&M supports almost 3,000 aircraft operated by 200 major international and domestic airlines.
