Air Côte d’Ivoire is set to modernise and expand its fleet after placing a firm order for four Embraer E175 jets, with purchase rights for eight more, the airline announced at the Dubai Airshow on Monday.
The new aircraft — configured with 76 seats, including 12 in Business Class — will support the carrier’s push to enhance regional connectivity, grow its Abidjan hub, and begin phasing out its turboprop fleet. Deliveries are slated to begin in the first half of 2027, with the order entering Embraer’s backlog in Q4 2025.
CEO Laurent Loukou said the E175 offers the right mix of capacity, performance and comfort for West African markets. “Its capabilities are perfectly adapted to the size of African routes. This aircraft will allow us to offer a superior passenger experience, operate more efficiently, and strengthen our Abidjan hub as we continue to grow.”
Air Côte d’Ivoire plans to use the jets on domestic and regional routes, leveraging the E175’s greater speed, range and cargo capacity to improve frequency and connectivity — particularly for passengers connecting to the airline’s new long-haul service to Paris Charles de Gaulle.
Embraer Commercial Aviation CEO Arjan Meijer welcomed the carrier to the E-Jet family, highlighting the E175’s strong track record in Africa. “The aircraft is a proven performer on the continent and an excellent fit for Air Côte d’Ivoire’s ambitions. It will deliver immediate improvements in efficiency, connectivity and passenger satisfaction.”
Embraer has 250 aircraft in service across 56 African operators, and holds a 31% share of the continent’s market for aircraft up to 150 seats — a segment in which the Brazilian manufacturer has grown at a 7.5% CAGR over the past decade.