WorldStage– United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has signed an aircraft sale and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines for the delivery of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft to deepen domestic, regional and international operations.
The Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, announced this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.
Okonkwo said that the signing ceremony held at the corporate campus of Southwest Airlines in Dallas in the U.S. and was brokered by SkyWorks Holdings, LLC.
According to Okonkwo, the development marked a new phase in the airline’s strategic plan and growth.
Okonkwo said that Boeing 737-800 was renowned for its advanced technology and design enhancements that improved performance, efficiency and passenger comfort.
He added that the acquisition would enable UNA to broaden operations, enhance efficiency and capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitive edge in global aviation.
The chairman said that the agreement represented not only acquisition of aircraft but also a ground-breaking opportunity for collaboration with Southwest Airlines.
He said that the aircraft’s fuel efficiency due to its advanced aerodynamics and efficient engines would reduce operational costs and minimise environmental impact.
He added that its versatile range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles would allow United Nigeria Airlines to serve both short-haul and medium-haul routes effectively, optimising networks.
”After four years of solid and reliable operations by UNA, the Boeing 737-800 upgrade will pave the way for a more profitable expansion and growth.
“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.
“In addition, this acquisition will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and boost Nigeria’s economic development and growth in line with the policies of President Bola Tinubu.
” 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,” he said.
Okonkwo said that UNA was looking forward to continued collaboration with Southwest Airlines.
“Consequently, we have expressed interest in acquiring additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, bringing the total number to 10, which will be inducted into the UNA’s fleet between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027,” Okonkwo said.
He quoted Mr Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s Vice-President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, to have said during the signing ceremony that 737-800 aircraft would provide UNA with superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns.
Okonkwo also quoted the Chief Commercial Officer of SkyWorks Holdings, LLC, Mr Anders Hebrandas as saying: “We are pleased to have partnered with Southwest Airlines as it continues to restructure and modernise its 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.”
