Emirates, the world’s leading international airline, and Air Peace, West Africa’s largest carrier, have officially launched an expanded bilateral interline agreement, marking a significant step forward in connectivity between Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.
The agreement is designed to provide passengers with smoother, more seamless travel options across both airlines’ networks.
Under the new arrangement, passengers can book single-ticket journeys with through-checked baggage on selected routes, eliminating the need for separate tickets and transfers.
The move is expected to enhance passenger comfort and convenience, particularly for those travelling between Africa and Emirates’ global destinations.
Previously, Emirates passengers had access to 13 Nigerian cities through Air Peace’s network via Lagos, including Asaba, Abuja, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna, Kano, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Warri, and Uyo.
With the expanded agreement, the network now includes additional West African cities: Banjul in The Gambia and Dakar in Senegal via Abidjan, as well as Freetown in Sierra Leone and Monrovia in Liberia via Accra.
This expansion significantly broadens the reach for Emirates passengers seeking to explore Africa, while offering regional travellers enhanced access to Emirates’ world-class services and extensive international network.
Air Peace passengers also stand to gain considerably from the partnership. Through Emirates’ Dubai hub, they can connect seamlessly to key international destinations, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and London Stansted, while maintaining convenient connections to major African cities such as Abidjan, Accra, and Lagos.
The arrangement responds to strong demand for travel between Nigeria and the United Kingdom and provides passengers with greater flexibility and choice.
Speaking on the partnership, Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Enhancing our interline collaboration with Air Peace allows us to expand our footprint across Africa, creating new opportunities for passengers to experience Emirates’ world-class service while encouraging international travellers to explore the region via Lagos. Strategic partnerships like this are crucial to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation, tourism, and trade sectors.”
Nowel Ngala, Chief Commercial Officer at Air Peace, emphasised the strategic importance of the deal. “This interline agreement represents a major milestone in Air Peace’s vision to connect Africa more efficiently to global markets. By combining our strong regional network with Emirates’ extensive international reach, we provide passengers with seamless journeys, improved travel experiences, and greater access to key global destinations,” he said. “It also reinforces Air Peace’s role as a vital bridge between Africa and the international aviation ecosystem.”
Emirates operates a Boeing 777-300ER on its Dubai–Lagos route, offering passengers an award-winning inflight experience. This includes regionally inspired multi-course menus developed by top chefs, a wide selection of premium beverages, and more than 6,500 entertainment options, including Nollywood classics, on its acclaimed ice system.
As one of only two airlines operating a First Class cabin into Nigeria, Emirates is recognised for its luxurious, comfortable, and private travel experience.
Air Peace operates a growing fleet of more than 50 aircraft, including Boeing 777s, Boeing 737s, and Embraer jets, serving domestic, regional, and international routes.
The airline is committed to enhancing intra-African connectivity, supporting trade and tourism, and contributing to the economic growth of the continent.
Tickets for travel under the Emirates–Air Peace interline agreement can be booked via emirates.com, flyairpeace.com, or authorised travel agents.
Current Nigerian destinations on Air Peace’s network available to Emirates passengers via Lagos include Asaba, Abuja, Akure, Benin City, Calabar, Enugu, Ilorin, Kaduna, Kano, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Warri, and Uyo.
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