United Nigeria Airlines Joins AFRAA as Full Member

United Nigeria Airlines has joined the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) as a full member, strengthening its expansion plans and supporting the growth of African aviation.

United Nigeria Airlines has secured full membership of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), marking a significant step in the airline’s continental growth strategy. The development is expected to enhance the carrier’s presence across Africa while reinforcing Nigeria’s position in the continent’s aviation industry.

The admission also reflects AFRAA’s commitment to expanding its network and promoting the sustainable development of African airlines.

Since launching commercial operations in February 2021, United Nigeria Airlines has focused on improving domestic connectivity and encouraging regional integration in West Africa. The airline operates a fleet that includes Boeing 737-800NG, Embraer 145, Airbus A320, Embraer 190 and CRJ900 aircraft.

The carrier currently serves 14 domestic destinations, including Abuja, Lagos, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Kano and Owerri, with plans to introduce four additional routes before the end of the year. Beyond Nigeria, it operates flights to Accra, Ghana, and has received government designation to fly to the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Italy, Turkey, and other regional and international destinations.

As part of its expansion, United Nigeria Airlines recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Guinea-Bissau to establish a national carrier. The airline has also achieved IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification and is a member of the IATA Clearing House, demonstrating its commitment to international safety and operational standards. It also plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector and reduce reliance on overseas maintenance services.

AFRAA Secretary General Abderahmane Berthé welcomed the airline, describing Nigeria as one of Africa’s most important aviation markets and saying the membership would give the carrier access to advocacy, commercial intelligence, networking opportunities and capacity-building programmes.

Executive Chairman Prof. Obiora Okonkwo described the United Nigeria Airlines AFRAA membership as a defining moment for the airline and Nigeria’s aviation industry. He said it would strengthen collaboration with other African carriers and support the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

With its admission, United Nigeria Airlines AFRAA membership places the carrier among more than 40 African airlines, representing over 85 per cent of international passenger traffic handled by African airlines.

Do you think United Nigeria Airlines AFRAA membership will accelerate the airline’s expansion across Africa?