United Nigeria Airlines has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of two Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft as part of efforts to increase capacity, strengthen its route network and support future domestic and regional expansion.

The newly acquired aircraft, bearing registration numbers 5N-CFC and 5N-CFB, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), Lagos, on June 13, 2026, and are scheduled to be formally unveiled at a ceremony expected to attract key stakeholders, including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe.

In a statement, the airline said the aircraft were named in honour of the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Achebe, and the late renowned novelist, Professor Chinua Achebe, describing the gesture as a tribute to culture, leadership and national pride.

According to the airline, the addition of the aircraft strengthens its growing fleet and enhances its ability to meet increasing passenger demand through improved capacity, reliability and comfort.

The airline noted that the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, widely recognised for efficiency and passenger comfort, will support its commitment to providing safe and seamless services while advancing plans for further regional and long-haul operations.

Chief Commercial Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Adedayo Olawuyi, described the fleet expansion as a significant milestone in the airline’s development.

He said the acquisition goes beyond increasing operational capacity and reflects the airline’s commitment to celebrating Nigerian icons and promoting national pride.

In a related development, the airline has introduced a special airfare package for students of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), granting them a 50 per cent discount during the June 2026 holiday period.

The initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between both organisations in February 2026 to provide practical training opportunities for students of the university’s Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering programme.

Under the arrangement, verified ABUAD students travelling from Ekiti Airport to Abuja or Lagos will pay a discounted one-way fare of N200,000, while those travelling to destinations such as Port Harcourt, Enugu and other cities through connecting flights via Abuja or Lagos will pay N280,000.

The airline said the programme was designed to reduce travel costs for students and their families while offering a safer and more convenient transportation option during the holiday season.

The partnership has already enabled 20 final-year Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering students to undergo industrial training at the airline’s maintenance facility in Lagos, with each participant receiving a monthly stipend of N100,000.

Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, said the collaboration reflects the airline’s commitment to practical education, skills development and the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

He added that the initiative aligns with the airline’s corporate social responsibility objectives and its broader efforts to contribute to human capital development.

Founder and Chancellor of ABUAD, Afe Babalola, commended the airline for its support, describing the partnership as one of the most significant contributions the institution has received.

He urged successful individuals and corporate organisations to invest in education and initiatives that promote national development.

Meanwhile, Ibom Air has announced the relocation of its domestic flight operations to the newly commissioned international terminal at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The airline said the move, which took effect on June 14, 2026, marks a major step in its growth strategy and is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and improving passenger experience.

According to the airline, the new terminal features expanded passenger handling capacity, improved check-in and boarding facilities, enhanced security systems and more comfortable travel spaces.

Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, described the development as a defining moment for both the airline and the aviation sector in Akwa Ibom State.

He said the modern facility would elevate travel standards, improve connectivity and strengthen the state’s position as a key aviation hub for business, tourism and regional development.

Ibom Air added that the relocation aligns with its long-term vision of delivering world-class services while supporting the economic growth objectives of Akwa Ibom State.