United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed plans to launch direct flights between Lagos, Nigeria and New York, United States by the second quarter of 2026, representing a major milestone in its international expansion strategy.
The announcement was made during the airline’s fifth anniversary press briefing in Lagos, where executives outlined aggressive growth and fleet expansion plans.
Professor Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman, United Nigeria Airlines, confirmed that by mid-2026 UNA will begin nonstop services to New York, continuing its evolution from a domestic operator to one with continental and intercontinental reach.
“We will fly direct to New York by the end of the second quarter of 2026… one A330-200 will be delivered by July 26, the second in October,” Okonkwo said.
To support the long-haul operation, United Nigeria Airlines has ordered two Airbus A330-200 wide-body aircraft, with expected delivery between July and October 2026, along with additional Boeing 737-800NG aircraft to expand its regional and continental network.
“We had also leased 2 A330 – 200 wide body aircraft to support our international operations from Anka Aviation Turkey, to be delivered between July and October 2026 with first delivery on 26th of July, amongst other aircraft acquisition negotiations that deliveries may mature beyond 2026.”
This marks one of the first moves by a Nigerian carrier to establish a direct link between West Africa and North America, a route historically dominated by foreign airlines.
Significance
The establishment of a direct flight between Lagos and New York is expected to enhance Nigeria–U.S. air connectivity, attract inbound tourism, stimulate business travel, and strengthen diplomatic ties.
It also positions Lagos as a trans-Atlantic gateway hub for West Africa, offering passengers alternative options beyond existing services by foreign carriers
Okonkwo noted challenges remain related to airport transit facilities and infrastructure at major Nigerian airports, urging stakeholders to accelerate enhancements that could further support the competitiveness of home-grown airlines on international routes.
