Nigerian carrier Arik Air has confirmed its operational plans on the Lagos – Bamako route, a service that was tentatively formalised at Routes Africa in Bamako, Mali earlier this year. The airline will launch twice weekly services on October 11 using a Bombardier CRJ900 regional jet which will operate via Cotonou in Benin and Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso. The Canadian-built aircraft is configured for 74 passengers with an interior containing a ten-seat Business Class cabin and room for 64 Economy travellers.
“The commencement of services between Lagos and the cities of Cotonou, Ouagadougou and Bamako is significant because it marks the end to years of limited air links between Nigeria and the respective countries, explained Dr Michael Arumemi-Ikhide, Chief Executive Officer, Arik Air Group.
“The inauguration is coming at a time when the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is seeking closer relations among countries in the region. Arik Air’s new services will help Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Mali to foster even stronger economic ties and cement economic relations,” he added.
The Nigerian carrier is currently in a major growth stage. It has recently expanded its domestic schedules and is now looking at developing its international activities. The Angolan capital Luanda is one such destination on its radar and flights could commence as early as next week as the carrier looks to take advantage of the developing opportunities in the Central Southern African country. But, Arik has also set its ambitions further afield and is looking to develop its presence on other regions of the world.
At World Routes, Arik Air will announce details of a partnership with Routesonline to use its Route Exchange online trading platform for a proposed network expansion into Southern Europe. The formal Request for Proposals (RFP) is due to be launched in Berlin on the afternoon of October 3.
Related Content
