Air Canada sets sight on Lagos service for 2027 following expanded bilateral agreement

Air Canada has welcomed the announcement of an expanded Air Transport Agreement between Canada and Nigeria, paving the way for the carrier to launch direct scheduled flights to Lagos in 2027.

The airline confirmed it has initiated the process to secure the required regulatory approvals to operate commercial flights into Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in expanding transatlantic connectivity between North America and West Africa.

Commenting on the development, Mary-Jane Lorette, Vice President of Revenue Management, Partnerships, and International Affairs at Air Canada, expressed optimism about entering the Nigerian market.

“We welcome this expanded Air Transport Agreement and look forward to obtaining the necessary government approvals to begin service to Lagos, Nigeria in the coming year,” Lorette said.

The newly expanded bilateral pact is expected to deepen economic ties, stimulate two-way trade, support tourism, and facilitate seamless travel for business and leisure passengers in both nations.

Highlighting the strategic value of the agreement, Canada’s Minister of Transport, The Honourable Steven MacKinnon, noted that the accord expands horizons for Canadian carriers while providing consumers with broader travel choices.

“By expanding our air transport agreements, we are creating new opportunities for Canadian airlines and giving travellers more choice,” MacKinnon stated. “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.”

Echoing these sentiments, The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, underscored the long-standing demand from the Nigerian diaspora in Canada and the commercial potential of tapping into West Africa’s primary financial hub.

“This expanded agreement creates a direct link between Canada and Nigeria. It means more choice for travellers, stronger ties between our people, and new opportunities for businesses to expand trade in both directions,” Sidhu said.

“I have met many Canadians of Nigerian descent who have long called for greater connectivity between Canada and Nigeria, and I know more flight options will be welcome news. 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,” he added.

Air Canada stated that specific operational details, including flight frequencies, schedules, and assigned aircraft types, will be announced in due course, subject to full regulatory clearances and operational completion in Nigeria.

Wole Shadare