Privately-owned United Nigeria Airlines is more than doubling its existing fleet with the purchase of Boeing 737 aircraft from Southwest.
In a statement posted on social media Monday, United Nigeria said it will acquire six 737-800s from Southwest, with options for four more. The aircraft will be delivered and integrated into United Nigeria’s operations between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027.
All six of the 737s formerly flew for Southwest and were slated to be retired. The carrier said in July that it was looking to offload some of its 203 787-800s as it takes delivery of more 737 MAX jets, and suggested a sale of at least five of the aircraft was in the works.
Southwest expects to retire a total of 55 airplanes this year.
The deal was brokered with the assistance of SkyWorks Holdings, an aviation leasing and advisory company. The three partners signed the agreement at Southwest’s corporate headquarters in Dallas.
United Nigeria’s current fleet consists of four Embraer ERJ-145s and one Boeing 737-500. Airline officials said the aircraft coming from Southwest will help support new routes, boost efficiency, and improve the flying experience for customers.
United Nigeria Executive Chairman Obiora Okonkwo said the carrier will continue to work with Southwest after delivery in areas such as training and maintenance support. The prospect of a continuing relationship with Southwest, Okonkwo added, was a major factor in moving the agreement forward.
United Nigeria was founded in 2020 and has its operations base at Enugu International Airport. It flies entirely within Nigeria.
