Domestic Airlines in Nigeria: 2025 Reviews & Routes

Flying is often the safest and fastest way to travel between Nigerian cities. However, with flight delays and cancellations being common, choosing the right airline is critical. This comprehensive guide reviews the major players in 2025.

Airline Reviews & Ratings

1. Ibom Air 🏆 (Best for Reliability)

Owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, Ibom Air is widely regarded as the most reliable airline in Nigeria.

• On-Time Performance: High (90%+)
• Fleet: Modern Bombardier CRJ900s and Airbus A220s.
• Routes: Uyo, Lagos, Abuja, Calabar, Port Harcourt, Enugu.
• Verdict: Pay a bit more for peace of mind. Excellent for business meetings.

2. Air Peace (Largest Network)

West Africa's largest airline, covering almost every domestic airport and several international destinations.

• On-Time Performance: Average (prone to "operational delays").
• Fleet: Diverse mix including Boeing 777s, Embraer 195-E2s (brand new).
• Pros: Massive frequency. If one flight is cancelled, there's likely another soon.
• Cons: Customer service can be overwhelmed during disruptions.

3. Green Africa (Budget / Low Cost)

A true low-cost carrier (LCC).

• Pricing: Cheapest fares (gSaver) but non-refundable.
• Baggage: Strict policy. Standard tickets often don't include checked bags. Read the fine print!
• Fleet: ATR 72-600 turboprops (slower flight time but efficient).

4. United Nigeria Airlines

A rapidly growing carrier focusing on connecting the East and North to Lagos/Abuja.

• Reliability: Good.
• Hub: Enugu / Lagos.

5. Arik Air

Once the giant of African aviation, now operating a smaller, more focused schedule under receivership (AMCON).

• Status: Still flying major routes.
• Tip: Check their status before booking long-term.

Popular Routes & Flight Times

• Lagos (LOS) ↔ Abuja (ABV): The "Golden Triangle". 50+ flights daily. Flight time: 55 mins.
• Lagos ↔ Port Harcourt (PHC): Oil & Gas route. Heavy business traffic. Flight time: 55 mins.
• Abuja ↔ Kano (KAN): Key northern link. Flight time: 45 mins.
• Lagos ↔ Owerri (QOW): Very busy, especially on weekends.

6 Insider Booking Tips

1. Book Early: Prices double within 48 hours of departure. A ₦40,000 ticket can become ₦100,000.
2. Morning Flights: The first flight of the day (6:30 AM - 8:00 AM) is rarely delayed. Delays stack up as the day progresses.
3. Avoid Last Flight: If the last flight is cancelled, you are stranded until tomorrow.
4. Baggage: Most economy tickets include 20kg. Green Africa is the exception (checked bags are extra).
5. ID Policy: You MUST have a physical Government ID (NIN slip, Voters Card, Drivers License, or Passport) to board. Photos on phone are often rejected.
6. Weather: Harmattan season (Dec-Jan) causes massive cancellations due to visibility. Allow buffer days.