…launches Accra flight August 25, to increase fleet by ten aircraft
For seamless global distribution of its products and travel contents, United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has joined the Global Distribution platform, popularly known as Global Distribution System (GDS) of renowned travel technology company, Sabre Corporation.
This was disclosed on Friday at a press conference organised by UNA at its Lagos office, in the presence of officials of Sabre Corporation and National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).
This is just as the Chairman of the airline, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo disclosed that the airline will by the end of November 2025, acquire four wide-bodied aircraft and by February 2026, increase its fleet with six more B737-800 to increase capacity for global sales.
“This is the first Nigerian airline on GDS, we are the first to go global, we have had this as part of our objectives even though, it’s been delayed. With over 50,000 agencies on the Sabre network abd covering over 200 countries, we need to increase our capacity, we need more seats to sell, by this time next year, we would have increased our capacity, some by outright purchase and others by lease.
“We would be properly positioned for our regional and intercontinental flights, not only strengthening the local operations, we will launch our first regional flights to Accra on August 25 . It’s been very challenging but we are giving up, we are determined to give the best travel experience to Nigerians “, he said.
Olayiwola Dare, Vice president, Sales and strategy, Sabre Corporation said with the over 200 countries and 50,000 travel agencies, Sabre would give UNA a wider reach.
“In Sabre, we are very much committed to ensure that our technical capability is well-implemented with United Nigeria as we do for other airlines globally. Also, we have a very big market place with over 200 countries currently and over 50,000 travel agencies globally working on our platform and this will put United Nigeria in that platform and accessible to all travel agencies globally and all those travel management companies like Shell, Chevron, Total and other big firms, irrespective of your location throughout the world. United Nigeria is going to be accessible.” , he said.
With this agreement with Sabre Corporation, Travel agents worldwide can now shop and book United Nigeria Airlines product via Sabre.
This agreement, according to the two companies marks the airline’s first collaboration with a global distribution technology partner, enabling it to distribute its product via Sabre’s expansive global marketplace.
Through the agreement, Sabre-connected travel agents worldwide will gain access to the Nigeria-based carrier’s fares and inventory, supporting United Nigeria Airlines’ ambitions for growth across Nigeria and West Africa.
With this agreement, the airline strengthens its sales strategy, improves visibility, and enters a new phase of commercial capability.
“Choosing Sabre marks a significant milestone in United Nigeria Airlines’ journey. For thee first time, we are making our product available through a global travel marketplace, giving us the opportunity to broaden our reach and connect with travelers around the world,” Mazi Osita Okonkwo, Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer, United Nigeria Airlines.said.
According to him, “This agreement supports our growth strategy, enhances our visibility, and enables travel agents globally to seamlessly shop and book our fares. We look forward to welcoming more travelers through this new partnership.”
Also speaking, Alessandro Ciancimino, Vice President, Airline Distribution, EMEA, Sabre, said, .“At Sabre, we’re committed to helping carriers of all sizes scale efficiently and better serve the needs of today’s travellers. So, we’re proud to support United Nigeria Airlines as they take this important step to expand their reach. By joining the Sabre travel marketplace, the airline is increasing access to content for travel agents worldwide and unlocking new.opportunities for revenue and growth.”
The distribution agreement wil provide United Nigeria Airlines with new tools to help maximize reach and revenue potential while empowering travel sellers to build more tailored itineraries for their cients.
Mr Joshua Olowo, President of Sabre Central and West Africa, said: “We are excited to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the Sabre marketplace as our newest airline partner. This partnership aligns with our goa to help local carriers reach broader markets, increase revenue opportunities, and serve travellers better through Sabre’s world-class technology.”
Since its launch in 2021, United Nigeria Airlines has rapidly expanded its operations to key cities across Nigeria, including: Abuja, Lagos, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Asaba, Anambra, Kano, Warri, Katsina, Sokoto, Bayelsa, and Benin.
The airline is about to go global with designations to United Kingdom, United States of.America United Arab Emirates; Johannesburg, and Dakar, among other African countries.
The airline disclosed plans for further expansions on domestic routes including Jos, Maiduguri, and Bauchi.
