Nigeria has given the green light to an airline’s proposal for direct commercial flights to Barbados.
This signals a significant milestone as the first-ever commercial direct air connection between the two nations.
The approval from Nigerian authorities paves the way for takeoff from either Lagos or Abuja, with final clearances awaited from Barbadian officials.
This groundbreaking route marks the inaugural commercial direct air link between Nigeria and Barbados, addressing a longstanding void in travel options between Africa and the Caribbean.
Industry analysts and advocates for stronger Africa-Caribbean ties have long underscored the necessity of such connections to bolster economic and cultural relations between the continents and the African diaspora in the Americas.
In March 2023, Barbados’ CARICOM ambassador, David Comissiong, revealed discussions with Nigerian carrier Air Peace regarding potential twice-weekly flights between Barbados and Lagos, with plans also in motion for service to Antigua and Barbuda through the revamped regional airline LIAT.
While refraining from speculating on a specific launch date, optimism radiated from both Nigerian and Barbadian authorities, signaling imminent progress.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley emphasized that only political determination stood in the way of forging direct air links between Africa and the Caribbean, echoing sentiments shared by stakeholders on both sides.
Related News: Airfares Drop On International Routes Over Naira Appreciation, Air Peace Debut.
Highlighting the vast potential for enhanced business and leisure travel, officials are poised to seize the opportunities afforded by this historic air link.
This is wonderful news. I hope there will be direct flights from Southern Afrika to tue Carribean soon.
Kunta Kinte is turning in his grave!! Soon he will drop the name Toby✅
Will it actually go direct across the Atlantic or will there be a stopover on route.
A very positive move.
I wish the Organizers all the best.
I have travelled to various parts of Africa.
My journey from Barbados to South Africa, with various connections, took a day.
I was so tired that I had to sleep for a day.
This planned venture will be shorter, & hopefully cheaper that we , Caribbean people can visit the cradle of civilization, Africa.