United Nigeria Airlines has sealed a deal with US-based Southwest Airlines to acquire six Boeing 737-800 jets.
The agreement includes technical support, training, and maintenance partnerships to boost expansion and efficiency.
United Nigeria Airlines has signed an agreement with US-based Southwest Airlines for the acquisition of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft, in a move aimed at strengthening its operations across domestic, regional, and international routes.
The deal was officially sealed at Southwest Airlines’ headquarters in Dallas, Texas, and announced on Sunday.
According to the airline, the acquisition marks a significant milestone in its four-year growth trajectory and will help enhance Nigeria’s aviation capacity in line with the government’s broader economic development agenda.
The Boeing 737-800 is well-known for its fuel efficiency, with a range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles and a capacity to seat up to 189 passengers in a single-class configuration.
This aircraft is expected to enhance United Nigeria Airlines’ efficiency and service delivery. Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, described the development as “a step further” in the airline’s expansion drive.
“After four years of consistent and reliable operations, upgrading to the Boeing 737-800 allows us to scale our services profitably while offering enhanced travel options to Nigerians and other African passengers,” he said.
The agreement also includes a long-term partnership with Southwest Airlines, covering technical support, maintenance cooperation, and crew training assistance.
Okonkwo noted that these collaborations would reinforce safety and operational excellence across the carrier’s expanding fleet. The airline confirmed that the six aircraft represent just the first phase of a broader expansion strategy.
It has shown interest in acquiring four additional Boeing 737-800 Next Generation (NG) aircraft, with deliveries expected between Q1 2026 and Q1 2027.
“With this upgrade, we can now operate more direct flights into approved destinations, eliminate long layovers, improve passenger experience, and drive better cargo movement at competitive fares,” Okonkwo added.
Okonkwo further highlighted the economic benefits, noting that the acquisition would create direct and indirect employment opportunities while supporting Nigeria’s aviation and trade growth under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Anbessie Yitbarek, Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Boeing Africa, welcomed the partnership.
“We are pleased to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the 737 family with its first 737-800. This aircraft offers the superior reliability, fuel efficiency, and returns that operators need in today’s competitive aviation environment,” he said.
United Nigeria Airlines and Southwest Airlines confirmed that talks are ongoing to deepen their collaboration beyond aircraft delivery, ensuring continued support for operational and training needs.
