United Nigeria Airlines has announced an ambitious fleet and network expansion plan as it marks its fifth anniversary, outlining a strategy to grow to 21 aircraft by the end of the second quarter of 2026 and launch services to major global destinations including Dubai, New York, London, Rome, and Jeddah.
The Lagos-based carrier, which began operations in February 2021 with four narrow-body aircraft on the Lagos–Enugu route, currently operates a fleet of 10 aircraft. It serves 16 Nigerian states and maintains a regional link to Accra, Ghana. The airline now aims to transition from a strong domestic operator into a competitive continental and intercontinental carrier.
A key pillar of the expansion is fleet modernization and growth. The airline has acquired six Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft from Southwest Aviation and is finalizing negotiations for three additional aircraft of the same type. Deliveries will begin in March 2026, with the first two aircraft expected to join the fleet that month. All nine Boeing 737-800NGs are scheduled for delivery before the end of the second quarter of 2026.
To support long-haul operations, the airline has also leased two Airbus A330-200 wide-body aircraft from Anka Aviation in Turkey. The first A330-200 is slated for delivery on July 26, 2026, while the second is expected between July and October 2026. These aircraft will enable the carrier to operate intercontinental services to North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
Additional aircraft acquisition discussions are ongoing, with some potential deliveries extending beyond 2026 as part of a longer-term growth roadmap.
The airline plans to launch six additional regional and continental routes on or before the second quarter of 2026. Proposed destinations include Dakar, Monrovia, and Johannesburg, strengthening connectivity across West and Southern Africa.
Beyond the continent, the carrier is preparing to commence international services by summer 2026 to key global hubs, including Dubai (DXB), Jeddah (JED), Rome (FCO), New York (JFK), and the United Kingdom. These routes are expected to significantly expand Nigeria’s direct connectivity to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Italy, the United States, and the UK.
According to airline leadership, the long-term vision is to transform United Nigeria Airlines from a leading national carrier into a recognized continental aviation powerhouse. The expansion strategy aligns with rising passenger demand, Nigeria’s growing diaspora markets, and increased business and leisure travel between Africa and major global cities.
With fleet growth, new long-haul capability, and broader regional reach, United Nigeria Airlines is positioning itself for a defining phase in its evolution as it enters its next five years of operations.
