Emirates Airlines Resumes Flights to Nigeria After Two-Year Suspension

Lagos, Nigeria – October 2, 2024 – Emirates Airlines, the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) flag carrier, has resumed its operations to Nigeria after a two-year hiatus. The airline’s inaugural flight, EK 783, landed at Murtala Muhammad International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, on Tuesday afternoon, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral aviation relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.

The resumption of Emirates flights comes after a prolonged diplomatic impasse and issues related to non-repatriation of revenues. The airline had suspended its services to Nigeria in October 2022, citing challenges in repatriating its funds from the country.

The inaugural flight, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, arrived in Lagos with a number of empty seats. While there were no elaborate ceremonies to mark the occasion due to security concerns, the resumption of Emirates flights is expected to boost tourism, trade, and economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE.

Reciprocal Rights and Bilateral Agreement

In the lead-up to the resumption of Emirates flights, the Nigerian government and UAE aviation authorities agreed on a new Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). This agreement ensures reciprocal rights for both countries, allowing Nigerian airlines to operate flights to the UAE.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, emphasized the significance of this development for Nigeria’s aviation industry. “This marks a historic development for Nigeria’s aviation industry, expanding international connectivity and offering more options to travelers between the two nations,” he stated.

Daily Flights and Cargo Operations

Emirates will operate a daily service between Lagos and Dubai, offering passengers more choice and connectivity from Nigeria’s largest city to the Middle East and beyond. The airline’s Boeing 777-300ER will depart Dubai at 0945hrs, arriving in Lagos at 1520hrs. The return flight will depart Lagos at 1730hrs and arrive in Dubai at 0510hrs the next day.

In addition to passenger services, Emirates SkyCargo will also play a vital role in bolstering trade between Nigeria and the UAE. The airline will offer over 300 tonnes of bellyhold cargo capacity, in and out of Lagos every week. This will enable Nigerian businesses to export their goods to various international markets, including the UAE, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Bahrain.

Emirates SkyCargo will also import essential goods such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and general cargo from key markets, including the UAE, India, and Hong Kong. The airline’s efficient and reliable cargo services will facilitate seamless trade flows between the two countries.

Passenger Experience

Emirates’ Boeing 777-300ER serving Lagos will feature 8 First Class suites, 42 Business Class seats, and 304 seats in Economy Class. Passengers can enjoy a world-class travel experience, with regionally inspired multi-course menus, premium beverages, and award-winning inflight entertainment.

Conclusion

The resumption of Emirates flights to Nigeria marks a positive development for both countries. It will enhance connectivity, boost trade, and strengthen the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the UAE. Emirates’ commitment to providing exceptional services to its passengers will undoubtedly contribute to the success of its operations in Nigeria.