Air Canada to Launch First Direct Flights to Nigeria

Air Canada’s planned expansion into Nigeria follows a newly expanded air transport agreement between the Canadian and Nigerian governments, allowing direct flights between the two nations for the first time. Announced by Transport Canada on 6 August, the deal aims to boost connectivity and strengthen commercial ties between both countries.

The agreement allows multiple airlines from each nation to operate scheduled services, with a capacity allowance of 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights per country. It also grants fifth freedom rights for cargo flights, enabling airlines to transport goods between two foreign countries when a flight begins or ends in their home country, opening fresh opportunities for trade.

Maninder Sidhu, Canada’s Minister of International Trade, said: “This expanded agreement creates a direct link between Canada and Nigeria. It means more choice for travelers, stronger ties between our people, and new opportunities for businesses to expand trade in both directions.” The agreement builds on a code-share arrangement first negotiated in 2014 and formally signed in March 2025, marking its first major expansion since then.

Africa has become an increasingly important market for Air Canada, driven by growing economies and rising demand for international travel. Nigeria, with a population exceeding 237 million, stands out as one of Africa’s leading economic hubs. Sidhu added: “Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies. A direct connection to Lagos brings Canadian exporters closer to that market while also bringing families, communities, and partners closer together.”

The growing relationship between both countries is reflected in the figures below:

This expansion comes as Air Canada adjusts its wider network, having suspended or reduced several U.S. routes in 2026, including JFK, Sacramento, Raleigh, Charleston and Austin, citing rising fuel costs. The airline describes this as a shift towards stronger regions rather than a retreat from international flying altogether.

While Air Canada is moving ahead of U.S. carriers into this new route, it hasn’t secured a definitive advantage. Delta Air Lines already operates services between the U.S. and Lagos, and nothing prevents American airlines from expanding further. Air Canada must still obtain government approvals before launching the service, expected to begin in 2027. The airline remains heavily invested in U.S. routes too, accounting for roughly 40% of scheduled flights between Canada and the U.S., suggesting this move reflects network diversification rather than a shift away from America.

Do you think Air Canada’s early move into Nigeria will pay off before U.S. airlines catch up?