United Nigeria secures aircraft from Southwest Airlines

United Nigeria Airlines has announced the signing of a landmark aircraft sale and purchase agreement with American-based Southwest Airlines for the delivery of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This strategic acquisition and fleet expansion mark a new phase in United Nigeria Airlines’ strategic plan and growth. United Nigeria has also expressed interest in acquiring an additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, bringing the total to ten, which will be inducted into the United Nigeria Airlines fleet between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027.

The Boeing 737-800, renowned for its advanced technology and design enhancements that improve performance, efficiency, and passenger comfort, will enable United Nigeria Airlines to broaden its domestic, regional, and international operations, enhance efficiency and capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitive edge in global aviation. This agreement represents not only the acquisition of aircraft but also a ground-breaking opportunity for collaboration with Southwest Airlines, one of America’s most reliable and profitable operators of the B737NG family.

With impressive fuel efficiency due to its advanced aerodynamics and efficient engines, the 737-800 significantly reduces operational costs and minimizes environmental impact. Its versatile range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles will allow United Nigeria Airlines to serve both short-haul and medium-haul routes effectively. The spacious cabin enhances passenger comfort with wider seats, larger overhead bins, and improved lighting, accommodating up to 189 passengers in a single-class configuration.

“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,” said Professor Obiora Okonkwo, OFR, Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines. The new fleet will enable us 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 travel, helping Nigerians and other African travelers to eliminate inefficient stopovers and save valuable time. In addition, this acquisition will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and boost Nigeria’s economic development and growth in line with the policies of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”

“We are pleased to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the 737 family with its first 737-800,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, speaking during the signing ceremony at the corporate campus of Southwest Airlines in Dallas, USA. “The 737-800 will provide United Nigeria Airlines with superior reliability, fuel efficiency, and high-value returns operators require in today’s competitive market.”