United Nigeria Airlines has announced plans to commence direct flights from Lagos to New York by mid 2026 as part of activities marking its fifth anniversary, signaling a major step in the carrier’s international expansion strategy.
The fast growing Nigerian airline disclosed the development during a press conference in Lagos, where its Chairman, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, outlined an ambitious roadmap that includes fleet expansion, new regional routes, and long haul international operations.
According to Okonkwo, the airline has transported more than 2.5 million passengers within five years of operation and expanded its domestic footprint significantly. What began as a modest operation with four narrow body aircraft has evolved into a fleet of 10 aircraft serving 16 cities across Nigeria, alongside its first regional destination in Ghana.
The planned Lagos to New York route represents a defining milestone in the airline’s evolution from a domestic carrier to an emerging international operator. Okonkwo confirmed that preparations are already underway, supported by the acquisition and leasing of additional aircraft.
He revealed that the airline has ordered 11 aircraft to support its growth plan. These include two Airbus A330-200 wide body aircraft and six Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft. The first A330-200 is expected to be delivered by July 26, with the second arriving in October. The wide body jets will anchor the airline’s long haul operations, including the proposed New York service.
In addition, United Nigeria Airlines has acquired six Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft from Southwest Aviation and is finalizing negotiations for three more of the same model. Deliveries are scheduled to begin from March 2026, with the first two aircraft expected before the end of the second quarter of that year.
Okonkwo stated that the airline intends to commence some regional and international routes by the end of the second quarter of this year, ahead of the New York launch. Planned destinations include Dakar, Monrovia, Johannesburg and other key African cities. Further expansion into the Gulf states and Europe is also under consideration, with cities such as Dubai, Jeddah, Rome and the United Kingdom listed among potential routes, subject to regulatory approvals and operational readiness.
The chairman emphasized that the airline’s expansion is not limited to passenger services. United Nigeria Airlines has transitioned from an equivalent maintenance system to a certified Aircraft Maintenance Organisation structure. This move, he explained, is a precursor to establishing a full Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility within the next three years. The proposed MRO facility is expected to reduce operational costs, enhance technical independence and position Nigeria as a regional aviation service hub.
Despite the growth trajectory, Okonkwo highlighted structural challenges affecting Nigerian carriers. He noted that the absence of adequate transit facilities at major airports, particularly in Lagos and Abuja, hampers the ability of domestic airlines to compete effectively with foreign operators. According to him, establishing proper transit infrastructure would enable Nigerian carriers to channel passengers from regional destinations into long haul international routes, thereby positioning Nigeria as a strategic aviation hub in West and Central Africa.
Looking ahead, the airline’s five year strategic plan is built around three pillars. The first is excellence in passenger experience, with investments in modern aircraft, improved in flight services and customer focused digital platforms. The second pillar centers on sustainable growth and partnerships, including network expansion through strategic alliances and increased cargo operations. The third focuses on impact beyond aviation, with commitments to community support, talent development and broader social responsibility initiatives.
Reflecting on the airline’s journey, Okonkwo described the past five years as both challenging and transformative. He acknowledged the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, regulatory complexities, infrastructure limitations, currency volatility and operational pressures. However, he said these obstacles strengthened the airline’s resilience and sharpened its strategic focus.
United Nigeria Airlines also achieved key industry certifications within a relatively short period. The carrier became a member of the International Air Transport Association and secured IATA Operational Safety Audit certification within two years of operation, underscoring its compliance with international safety and operational standards.
As part of its anniversary celebrations, the airline unveiled its in flight magazine titled Harmony and introduced a loyalty and frequent flyer programme known as Unity Rewards. The initiatives are designed to deepen customer engagement and reinforce brand loyalty as the airline expands into new markets.
Addressing concerns about flight delays, Okonkwo appealed for public understanding, noting that operational disruptions are sometimes necessary to uphold safety standards. He emphasized that passenger safety remains the airline’s top priority.
With its planned entry into the transatlantic market, United Nigeria Airlines joins a growing list of indigenous carriers seeking to strengthen Nigeria’s presence in global aviation. The proposed Lagos to New York service, if successfully launched by mid 2026, could reshape the competitive landscape and expand travel options for passengers.
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