Overland Airways Expands Nigerian Network, Creating New Travel Opportunities

Overland Airways, a prominent Nigerian airline, has significantly expanded its domestic network, adding Minna and Warri as new destinations. This strategic move opens up exciting opportunities for African travel agents, offering enhanced connectivity and access to emerging markets within Nigeria.

The airline recommenced flights to Minna on April 23, 2025, restoring air service to the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport after a 15-year hiatus. This thrice-weekly service, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, connects Minna with Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria’s major commercial hubs. The inaugural flight was attended by high-ranking government officials, including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, underscoring the importance of this new route for regional development.

Overland Airways has also resumed services to Warri Airport (Osubi) in Delta State, providing a vital link between this important economic center and Lagos and Abuja. This route is expected to boost business travel and tourism, facilitating trade and investment in the oil-rich Delta region. The airline plans to further expand its network in 2025, adding more destinations and strengthening its presence in the Nigerian domestic market.

These route expansions are supported by Overland Airways’ ongoing fleet modernization program. The airline has introduced brand-new Embraer E-175 jets, featuring premium and economy cabins, to its fleet. These modern aircraft offer enhanced comfort and the latest technology, providing passengers with a superior travel experience. The E-175s are deployed on key routes, including the new services to Minna and Warri, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to investing in its operations and enhancing passenger satisfaction.

Capt. Edward Boyo, CEO of Overland Airways, emphasized the significance of these expansions, stating that aviation is a catalyst for economic growth. He highlighted the role of improved connectivity in opening up new opportunities for trade, investment, and development in regions like Niger State, where Minna serves as the capital. Mrs. Aderonke Emmanuel-James, COO of Overland Airways, echoed this sentiment, noting that the resumption of flights to Warri directly addresses customer demand for reliable air transport. She emphasized the importance of connecting Delta State with other parts of Nigeria, facilitating economic and social linkages.

For African travel agents, these developments present exciting new opportunities. The expanded route network and modernized fleet enable agents to create more diverse and appealing travel packages for their clients. The enhanced connectivity to Minna opens up access to Niger State’s growing agricultural and mining sectors, while the Warri route taps into the vibrant economy of the Delta region. These new services cater to both business and leisure travelers, offering convenient and comfortable travel options.

Overland Airways’ commitment to safety is further reinforced by its recent renewal of the IOSA safety certification for the fifth consecutive time. This internationally recognized certification demonstrates the airline’s adherence to stringent safety standards, providing passengers with added peace of mind. This commitment to safety, combined with the airline’s ongoing investments in fleet modernization and route expansion, positions Overland Airways as a leading player in the Nigerian aviation market.

Travel agents can leverage these developments to create tailored travel itineraries that cater to the specific needs of their clients. Whether it's exploring the cultural attractions of Minna, attending business meetings in Warri, or connecting to other destinations within Overland Airways’ growing network, these new routes offer a wealth of possibilities for travel professionals. The airline’s focus on providing reliable and comfortable air travel, combined with its commitment to safety and customer satisfaction, makes it a valuable partner for African travel agents seeking to expand their product offerings and enhance their clients’ travel experiences.

Overland Airways’ strategic expansion reflects the growing demand for air travel within Nigeria and the airline’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its passengers. By connecting key economic and tourism destinations, Overland Airways is playing a vital role in facilitating trade, investment, and development across Nigeria. This commitment to connectivity, combined with its focus on safety and customer service, positions the airline as a key driver of growth in the Nigerian aviation sector and a valuable partner for African travel agents.

The added capacity of 1,056 seats per week across the new routes, facilitated by the Embraer E-175 jets, further strengthens Overland Airways’ position in the market. This increased capacity allows the airline to accommodate more passengers and offer greater flexibility in scheduling, enhancing convenience for travelers. The E-175’s dual-class configuration also provides passengers with a choice of premium or economy seating, catering to different travel preferences and budgets. This enhanced capacity and flexibility are key advantages for travel agents seeking to provide their clients with a wider range of travel options.

Overland Airways’ continued investment in its fleet and network demonstrates its long-term commitment to the Nigerian aviation market. The airline’s strategic focus on connecting key destinations, enhancing passenger comfort, and maintaining high safety standards positions it for continued success in this dynamic and growing market. For African travel agents, Overland Airways represents a reliable and innovative partner, offering exciting new opportunities to expand their business and provide their clients with exceptional travel experiences within Nigeria.