Air Canada Sets sights on 2027 Lagos Launch Amid Growing Nigeria Market Lagos, Nigeria – Air Canada has initiated the process of securing government approvals to introduce commercial services to Nigeria, signaling a strategic expansion under the recently bolstered air transport agreement between the two nations. This move is poised to establish the first direct scheduled passenger connection between Canada and Nigeria, marking a significant shift from the previous codeshare operations. Specifics regarding the route’s origin in Canada, frequency of operations, and aircraft deployment are yet to be announced, with the airline indicating that details will follow the completion of the necessary regulatory procedures.
Mary — Jane Lorette, Air Canada’s Vice-President for Revenue Management, Partnerships, and International Affairs, expressed optimism about the expanded Air Transport Agreement and the prospects of establishing a direct service to Lagos. “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,” she.
The latest agreement, announced by Transport Canada, permits airlines from both countries to operate scheduled services and up to 14 passenger flights a week. This expansion follows the 2014 Canada-Nigeria air transport agreement, which was limited to codeshare services and was signed in March 2025. Nigeria has emerged as Canada’s third-largest aviation market in Africa, trailing only Morocco and Algeria, despite the lack of direct scheduled flights.
The aviation market between the two countries has seen a more than doubling of passenger demand over the past decade. This trend is attributed to the significant Nigerian community in Canada, business and education links, and the potential for growth in travel and tourism. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon emphasized the agreement’s potential to support tourism and trade, simplifying connections for businesses and travelers in both countries.
The expanded air transport agreement also allows for up to 10 weekly all-cargo flights and fifth-freedom rights for cargo operations, further enhancing commercial possibilities.
A Lagos service would mark a significant addition to Air Canada’s international network, which first entered Africa with a Montreal-Casablanca service in 2016.
The proposed Nigeria route would deepen Air Canada’s engagement in a continent where Canada has been actively expanding its aviation and commercial agreements, including its first air transport agreement with Ghana and an expanded deal with Senegal in 2025.
As the airline awaits regulatory approvals, the Nigerian aviation sector anticipates the potential reshaping of market dynamics with the entry of a new player.
The announcement of Air Canada’s plans is seen as a testament to the growing economic and cultural ties between Canada and Africa.
As the airline moves forward, the aviation industry in Nigeria and Canada will be watching closely to understand the implications of this new partnership and its potential to boost trade and tourism between the two nations.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Ayodeji Adegboyega
