UNA Launches Lagos–Accra and Abuja–Accra Flights, Honours Late Ghanaian President Rawlings

United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has officially launched scheduled flights on the Lagos–Accra and Abuja–Accra routes, unveiling an aircraft named in tribute to the late Ghanaian President, Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings.

UNA Chairman, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, described the move as a symbolic homage to a Pan-African leader and a demonstration of the airline’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity. He noted that members of the Rawlings family will be present in Accra for the official unveiling on Monday.

Speaking after overseeing a mock arrival and departure exercise at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Okonkwo highlighted that UNA plans to expand its fleet by six aircraft in the coming months. The expansion aims to improve intra-African access, foster people-to-people diplomacy, boost aviation traffic, and provide Nigerians with more options beyond foreign carriers dominating West Africa.

However, Okonkwo raised concerns about high operational costs in Nigeria, noting that passenger service charges at Nigerian international airports reach $100, compared with $60 in Ghana, making a Lagos–Accra return ticket burdened with $116 in taxes alone. He emphasised that UNA’s entry into the Accra routes has already reshaped competition, reducing fares by almost 50% on direct Abuja–Accra flights.

On safety, Okonkwo reaffirmed UNA’s commitment to the highest operational standards, citing Nigeria’s strict aviation regulations, including simulator recertification for pilots every six months, compared to once a year in Europe and the U.S.

He also called for government support through tax reductions and single-window financing to ensure sustainable growth, stressing that robust air connectivity is vital for economic development.

UNA’s new Ghana service marks the first phase of a broader regional expansion plan, with future ambitions to link more African destinations and eventually operate intercontinental routes, positioning Nigeria as a hub for both regional and global aviation.

By combining strategic expansion with a symbolic tribute, UNA’s launch honours Rawlings’ legacy while advancing Nigeria’s presence in West African air travel.