Ahead of its May 16 re-launch of operations on the Lagos-London route, Air Nigeria on Sunday night received a new Airbus A330-200 which arrived the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.
The aircraft, which was wet-leased from Egypt Air, arrived at exactly 9.15 p.m. to a ceremonial shower by fire fighters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
Speaking to newsmen on its arrival, the Chairman of Air Nigeria Development Company, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, said that the airline was returning to the Lagos-London route to provide better air services to Nigerian passengers.
He said that the aircraft type was selected for its proven operational efficiency.
Jimoh said that the airline would lower fares to attract passengers on its daily flights to Gatwick South Terminal in London and also improve on in-flight services.
According to him, the airline plans to expand operations to 17 routes that had been approved for it, including the U.S., China and Middle East.
The Managing Director of the airline, Mr Kinfe Kahssaye, had earlier told newsmen that the re-commencement of operations on the long haul route followed the successful turn-around of the airline over the last two years
He said that the development would boost business and tourism travels.
“Passengers will have distinctive onboard experience on the flights as indigenous meals and variety of movies would be offered as the airline is committed to delivering quality services at an affordable price,’’ he said.
Pastor David Oyedepo of the Winners Chapel was on hand to pray on the new aircraft.
The defunct Virgin Nigeria, which later metamorphosed into Air Nigeria after being bought over by Ibrahim, had operated the Lagos-London route before pulling out.
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