- United Nigeria Airlines signs deal for six Boeing 737-800 aircraft with Southwest Airlines.
- Aircraft to boost operations across domestic, regional, and international routes.
- Airline plans to acquire four additional Boeing 737-800s by 2027.
United Nigeria Airlines has signed a sale and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines for the acquisition of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in its long-term expansion strategy.
The deal, according to EKO HOT BLOG was facilitated in collaboration with SkyWorks Holdings, LLC, signals the airline’s readiness to enhance its operational footprint across domestic, regional, and international routes, as it moves into a new phase of growth and modernization.
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In a statement issued yesterday, the airline emphasized that this acquisition will enable it to boost operational efficiency, capacity, and reinforce Nigeria’s position in global aviation.
The Boeing 737-800, known for its impressive fuel efficiency, advanced aerodynamics, and cost-effectiveness, is well-suited for short- and medium-haul operations.
It has a range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles and can carry up to 189 passengers in a single-class layout. The aircraft also features enhanced passenger comfort with wider seats, larger overhead bins, and improved lighting.
Speaking on the acquisition, Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, noted that the investment is a natural progression after four years of successful operations.
“After four years of solid and reliable operations by United Nigeria Airlines, the Boeing 737-800 upgrade will pave the way for a more profitable expansion and growth,” Okonkwo said.
He added that the new aircraft will allow the airline to launch new flights to approved local and international destinations, increase its passenger and cargo capacity, and offer affordable fares with more efficient point-to-point connections.
“The new fleet will enable the airline to operate new flights into approved domestic, regional and international destinations, lift more passengers and cargo at competitive fares, and provide efficient point-to-point travels, helping Nigerians and other African travellers to eliminate inefficient stopovers and save valuable time,” he stated.
Okonkwo also acknowledged the support received from Boeing and emphasized the airline’s confidence in the deal, citing Southwest Airlines’ top-tier maintenance culture, which aligns with United Nigeria’s own operational standards.
“We must put on record the strong support we have received from Boeing throughout the entire process and the promise for continued support to ensure a smooth entry into service and operation of the fleet,” he said.
“The excellent maintenance culture of Southwest Airlines, which is in line with United Nigeria Airlines’ culture, motivated us to make the acquisition. We are looking forward to continued collaboration with Southwest Airlines post-delivery in different areas such as: training and maintenance support, among other areas,” Okonkwo added.
Looking ahead, the chairman disclosed plans to acquire four more Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, which will bring the total to ten aircraft. These additional jets are expected to join the fleet between Q1 2026 and Q1 2027.
During the signing event held at Southwest Airlines’ headquarters in Dallas, USA, Anbessie Yitbarek, Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa at Boeing, welcomed United Nigeria Airlines into the 737 user family.
“We are pleased to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the 737 family with its first 737-800,” Yitbarek said.
“The 737-800 will provide United Nigeria Airlines with superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns operators require in today’s competitive market,” he concluded.
