BREAKING: Air Canada To Begin Direct Flights To Lagos in 2027 Following Nigeria–Canada Aviation Agreement

Air Canada has announced plans to begin scheduled flights to Lagos in 2027 following the signing of an expanded air transport agreement between Nigeria and Canada.

In a statement released on Thursday, the airline welcomed the new bilateral aviation deal and confirmed it has started seeking the necessary regulatory approvals required to operate commercial flights to Nigeria.

Mary-Jane Lorette, Air Canada’s Vice-President of Revenue Management, Partnerships and International Affairs, said the airline is excited about the opportunity to introduce direct services to Lagos next year, subject to government approvals and the completion of operational requirements in Nigeria.

The announcement comes shortly after both countries signed an expanded Air Transport Agreement that, for the first time, allows direct scheduled air services between Nigeria and Canada.

The agreement also permits both nations to designate multiple airlines to operate flights between the two countries.

Canada’s Minister of Transport, Steven MacKinnon, described the deal as a major step toward strengthening economic ties, boosting tourism and trade, and giving travellers more flight options.

Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu, also welcomed the development, noting that many Canadians of Nigerian descent have long advocated for improved air connectivity between the two countries.

He added that direct flights to Lagos would enhance business opportunities, bring families closer together, and improve access to one of Africa’s largest economies.

Air Canada said details regarding flight schedules, routes and the aircraft to be deployed will be announced at a later date once all regulatory and operational requirements have been met.