Amanze Chinonye
United Nigeria Airlines has signed a landmark agreement with U.S.-based Southwest Airlines for the purchase of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft, marking a major milestone in its expansion strateg and a boost to Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The deal, sealed at Southwest Airlines’ corporate headquarters in Dallas, will see the Nigerian carrier take delivery of the aircraft between the first quarter of 2026 and early 2027. The acquisition positions United Nigeria Airlines to expand its domestic, regional, and international operations while strengthening Nigeria’s competitive edge in global aviation.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe Boeing 737-800, a widely used model in commercial aviation, offers a range of about 2,935 nautical miles, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced passenger comfort, including wider seats, larger overhead bins, and advanced lighting. Each aircraft can accommodate up to 189 passengers in a single-class configuration.
Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, said the fleet upgrade would accelerate the airline’s growth after four years of operations.
“The Boeing 737-800 upgrade will pave the way for a more profitable expansion and growth,” he said. “The new fleet will enable us to operate new flights into approved domestic, regional and international designations, 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.”
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Okonkwo added that the acquisition would generate thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth in line with President Tinubu’s development agenda. He also highlighted the role of Boeing and Southwest Airlines in making the deal possible.
“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. 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.”
In addition to the six aircraft, United Nigeria Airlines has expressed interest in acquiring four more Boeing 737-800 Next Generation jets, bringing its planned fleet expansion to ten.
Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, welcomed the Nigerian carrier into the Boeing family.
“We are pleased to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the 737 family with its first 737-800. The 737-800 will provide United Nigeria Airlines with superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns operators require in today’s competitive market.”
The transaction was brokered with the support of SkyWorks Holdings, LLC. Chief Commercial Officer Anders Hebrand said the aircraft would play an important role in Africa’s aviation market.
“We’re pleased to have partnered with Southwest Airlines as they continue to restructure and modernize their fleet. With United Nigeria Airlines, these top-of-the-line 737-800s have found a great home in the growing African aviation market, where they will be productive for many more years to come.”
United Nigeria Airlines, established just four years ago, has quickly grown into one of Africa’s most ambitious carriers, connecting key Nigerian cities and preparing to expand across regional and international destinations. Its growth strategy is built on offering safe, reliable, and affordable services designed to unite people and places through world-class travel experiences.
For Southwest Airlines, the partnership reflects its reputation as the world’s largest operator of Boeing 737 aircraft and a global leader in affordable, customer-focused air travel. Headquartered in Dallas, the airline is widely recognized for its efficient fleet management and operational reliability.
SkyWorks Holdings, meanwhile, continues to strengthen its role as a specialist in commercial aviation finance and advisory services, structuring deals like this one that support both fleet modernization in the U.S. and aviation growth in emerging markets such as Africa.
The agreement underscores United Nigeria Airlines’ ambition to become a regional powerhouse while supporting Nigeria’s economic agenda. With a stronger fleet, the airline can expand connectivity, reduce travel inefficiencies, and boost trade and tourism flows across Africa, positioning Nigeria as a key aviation hub.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
