United Nigeria Airlines has entered into an agreement with U.S.-based Southwest Airlines to acquire six Boeing 737-800 aircraft, a move that strengthens its fleet expansion strategy and positions the carrier for wider domestic, regional, and international operations.
The deal was announced on Sunday following a formal signing ceremony at Southwest Airlines’ corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas.
According to the airline, the addition of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, renowned for fuel efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort, will enhance capacity, reduce operational costs, and strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector in line with the federal government’s economic development agenda.
The Boeing 737-800 has a range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles and a capacity of up to 189 passengers in a single-class layout, making it one of the most widely used aircraft globally.
Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, said the acquisition represents a new phase in the airline’s growth.
“This is a step further. 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 incorporates a long-term partnership with Southwest Airlines, covering technical support, maintenance cooperation, and crew training assistance to reinforce safety and operational standards across the United Nigeria fleet.
Okonkwo noted that the six aircraft form part of a larger expansion plan, with an additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft under consideration for delivery between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 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 all at competitive fares,” Okonkwo added.
He also highlighted the economic impact, stating that the acquisition would create direct and indirect jobs while contributing to national economic growth targets under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Boeing Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, described the agreement as a strong endorsement of the 737 family.
“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.
Both United Nigeria Airlines and Southwest Airlines confirmed ongoing discussions to deepen their collaboration, with Southwest expected to continue its technical and operational support role beyond delivery of the aircraft.