Air Canada has started seeking the necessary government approvals to launch scheduled commercial flights to Lagos, Nigeria, in 2027, following the expansion of the bilateral air transport agreement between Canada and Nigeria.
In a statement Thursday, the airline welcomed the Canadian government’s announcement of the updated agreement. Mary-Jane Lorette, Air Canada’s vice-president of revenue management, partnerships and international affairs, said the carrier looks forward to obtaining the required approvals to begin service to Lagos “in the coming year.”
The airline’s move came hours after Nigeria and Canada signed the expanded air transport agreement, which for the first time permits direct scheduled passenger and cargo services between the two countries. Under the deal, each country may designate multiple airlines to operate the routes. Capacity is set at up to 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights per side, along with fifth-freedom rights for cargo operations.
Canada’s Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the agreement will create new opportunities for airlines and give travellers more choices. “The newly expanded Canada-Nigeria Air Transport Agreement will strengthen our economic ties, support tourism and trade, and make it easier for people and businesses in both countries to connect,” he said.
International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu noted the pact will also deepen commercial and people-to-people links. “Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies. A direct connection to Lagos brings Canadian exporters closer to that market while also bringing families, communities, and partners closer together,” Sidhu said.
He added that many Canadians of Nigerian descent have long sought greater connectivity.
Air Canada said details on schedules, frequency and aircraft will be released later, subject to government approvals and the completion of operational requirements in Nigeria. The route would mark the airline’s first scheduled service to Nigeria.
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