United Nigeria Airlines Strikes Major Deal For Six New Aircraft

 United Nigeria Airlines has entered into a strategic partnership with U.S.-based Southwest Airlines to expand its fleet with six Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Four more Boeing 737-800 NGs are scheduled to join by next year, with additional plans to acquire another four, bringing the total to ten aircraft between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027.

Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, described the deal as a milestone for the airline, crediting Boeing for its consistent support throughout the acquisition process and praising Southwest Airlines’ renowned maintenance culture, which aligns with United Nigeria Airlines’ operational standards. He emphasized that the collaboration will extend beyond delivery, covering training, maintenance, and other areas of technical support.

The Boeing 737-800, celebrated for its advanced technology, fuel efficiency, and passenger-friendly design, is expected to strengthen United Nigeria Airlines’ domestic, regional, and international operations. With a range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles, the aircraft will enhance network optimization while reducing operational costs and minimizing environmental impact. Its cabin, designed to accommodate up to 189 passengers in a single-class layout, offers greater comfort through wider seats, larger overhead bins, and improved lighting.

Okonkwo noted that the acquisition will not only improve service delivery but also generate thousands of jobs while contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth in line with the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He added that the expansion will allow the airline to serve more destinations, lift more passengers and cargo at competitive fares, and eliminate inefficient stopovers for African travelers.

Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, welcomed United Nigeria Airlines to the 737 family, highlighting the aircraft’s superior reliability, fuel efficiency, and strong returns for operators in a competitive market.

The deal was facilitated in partnership with SkyWorks Holdings, LLC. Chief Commercial Officer of SkyWorks, Anders Hebrand, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the 737-800s would serve as valuable assets for the growing African aviation sector.