Arik Air adds Lagos-Dubai via Abuja to route network

Arik Air has reinforced its position as West and Central Africa’s largest commercial carrier by expanding its reach to the Middle East, becoming the first Nigerian airline to offer a commercial service between Abuja, Nigeria and Dubai, The United Arab Emirates (UAE).

According to a statement released by the airline,the first commercial flight on the new route is currently slated for Monday, 28th July and will subsequently operate five weekly flights on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Nigeria and return on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from Dubai.

Outbound flights will depart from Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS), Lagos at 1905 (local time) arriving at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV), Abuja at 2020 (local time). The flight will then continue on to Dubai, departing Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV), Abuja at 2150 (local time) finally arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Dubai Terminal 1 at 0720 (local time).

The inbound flight will depart Dubai at 1030 (local time) and arrives in Abuja at 1430 (local time). The flight continues on to Lagos, leaving Abuja at 1600 (local time) and arriving in Lagos at 1715 (local time).

Current planning has the Lagos-Dubai route operated by an Airbus A330-200. Fitted to offer the very best in-flight comfort and style, the A330 is an environmentally-friendly product that provides the highest degree of operational flexibility and passenger comfort. The A330 will offer a two class configuration with 30 Premier Business Class seats and 187 Economy Class seats.

The Premier Business Class product has been carefully tailored to meet the discerning business traveler’s needs. Customers travelling in Premier Business Class, will be treated to an outstanding service, the finest cuisine and wines, turndown service with duvets, pyjamas, slippers, and luxury amenity kits.

Passengers will have individual secluded booth areas that contain flat beds featuring an in-built massage system complete with a hand held 3.5” inch LCD screen unit controlling seat and lighting functions

Dr Michael Arumemi-Ikhide, Arik Air’s Global Chief Executive Officer, commented:

“This is another exciting moment for us all at Arik Air, not only launching a new international destination, but becoming the first airline to link the capital Abuja to Dubai. The importance of Dubai as the Middle East’s commercial capital makes it imperative for Arik Air to connect the city with Lagos which is a Nigeria’s commercial capital.

“As the number one airline in West Africa we have an obligation to ensure we constantly strive to enhance the service we offer travelers who fly with us. Guests on the new route can, as usual, be assured of Arik Air’s highest safety and service standards.”