United Nigeria Airlines’ Ambitious Expansion Plan
United Nigeria Airlines, a relatively new carrier that began operations in 2021, has unveiled exciting details about its expansion strategy. The airline is set to bolster its aircraft fleet by acquiring 12 brand new aircraft within the next 24 months. This move aims to facilitate the carrier’s plans to increase the number of destinations it serves.
According to a statement by Mazj Okonkwo, the airline’s chief operating officer, the expansion plan includes the delivery of two Embraer-190 aircraft by the end of the fourth quarter of 2023. Subsequently, the airline plans to bring in 10 new Embraer-175 aircraft in batches over the next two years.
Okonkwo emphasized that this move aligns with United Nigeria Airlines’ business development and growth strategy. The addition of the Embrarer-190 and Embraer-175 aircraft will significantly boost the carrier’s capacity for both national and regional operations.
The airline’s expansion isn’t limited to increasing its fleet size; it also involves extending its reach to several African countries. Plans are already in motion for operations to commence in Ghana, Angola, South Africa, Niger Republic, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, and other African nations, as reported by World Stage.
Currently, United Nigeria Airlines operates four Embraer-145 aircraft, providing services to various cities within Nigeria. Despite its ambitious plans, the airline has faced challenges, such as a runway incident that occurred on May 31, 2023. During this event, one of the airline’s Embraer-145 planes skidded off the runway at Lagos, Nigeria, while carrying 50 passengers. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and the aircraft was safely brought to a halt off the runway. The incident is currently under investigation by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
As United Nigeria Airlines continues to pursue its expansion and growth objectives, aviation enthusiasts and travelers can look forward to a more extensive network of destinations and improved travel experiences within Africa.