Etihad
Airways is set to resume flight operations to Nigeria in March 2027, launching
daily Boeing 787 Dreamliner flights between Abu Dhabi and Lagos. The
announcement follows high-level discussions in Abuja between an Etihad
delegation, led by Capt. Khalid Humaid Al Ali, and Nigeria's Minister of
Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Strategic Partnership with Air Peace
To
broaden reach and travel flexibility, Etihad has established a codeshare
agreement with Nigeria’s Air Peace.
- Seamless Connections: The agreement enables
passengers to book journeys combining Air Peace’s domestic and regional
routes with Etihad’s international network via Abu Dhabi.
- Regional Hub Development: The partnership reflects
growing collaboration between local and global carriers, strengthening
Nigeria’s position as a West African aviation hub.
Push for Expansion to Abuja
During
the meeting, Minister Keyamo urged Etihad to consider adding direct routes to
Abuja alongside its Lagos operations. Direct access from the nation's capital
would eliminate domestic transit for northern travelers, offering greater
convenience for diplomats, business leaders, and religious pilgrims traveling
to Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Preparations and Economic Impact
Preparations
for the March 2027 launch are actively underway:
- Terminal Space: The Federal Airports
Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has been instructed to secure terminal
facilities for Etihad at Lagos's Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
- Working Committee: A joint committee of
Nigerian aviation authorities and Etihad representatives has been formed
to handle technical and operational logistics.
Etihad’s re-entry is expected to boost competition, enhance international flight options, and stimulate foreign investment, trade, and tourism across Nigeria.
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