Flying for the first time can be both exciting and intimidating, especially when navigating Nigerian airports which have their own unique characteristics. This guide aims to ease the anxiety for first-time flyers by breaking down the entire process from booking to landing, with specific tips relevant to Nigerian aviation.

Before You Book

Choosing the Right Airline

Nigeria has several domestic and international carriers to choose from:

  • Major domestic airlines: Air Peace, Arik Air, Ibom Air, United Nigeria Airlines, Dana Air
  • International carriers: Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Delta, etc.
  • Consider: Price, baggage allowance, route availability, flight time, and customer reviews

Booking Tips

  • Compare prices across multiple platforms (airline websites, travel agencies, booking sites)
  • Book at least 2-4 weeks in advance for better rates, especially for domestic flights
  • Consider morning flights which tend to have fewer delays in Nigeria
  • Check if your fare includes checked baggage (some economy fares don't)
  • Print your booking confirmation or save it offline on your phone

Essential Documents

For Domestic Flights

  • A valid government-issued photo ID (National ID, driver's license, voter's card, or international passport)
  • Your booking confirmation and/or e-ticket

For International Flights

  • Valid international passport (with minimum 6 months validity beyond return date)
  • Visa documentation (if required for your destination)
  • Return tickets (often required to board)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for many destinations)
  • Travel insurance documentation (recommended)

Packing Essentials

Checked Baggage

  • Domestic flights typically allow 20kg in economy class
  • International flights vary by airline (usually 23-30kg)
  • Use suitcases with wheels for easier transport
  • Never pack valuables, medications, or important documents in checked baggage
  • Add distinctive markers to easily identify your bag on the carousel

Carry-On Essentials

  • All important documents (ID, tickets, passport)
  • Medications in original packaging
  • Valuables (jewelry, electronics, cash)
  • A change of clothes (useful in case of delayed baggage)
  • Phone charger and power bank (power outages can occur at some airports)
  • Snacks and an empty water bottle to fill after security

Airport Navigation

Getting to the Airport

  • Arrive 1.5-2 hours early for domestic flights
  • Arrive 3-4 hours early for international flights
  • Consider traffic conditions when planning your journey, especially in Lagos
  • Arrange reliable transportation in advance

Check-In Process

  • Locate your airline's check-in counter using information displays
  • Have your ID and booking information ready
  • Consider online check-in if available (24 hours before flight)
  • Weigh your luggage before arriving to avoid excess baggage fees
  • Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible throughout the journey

Security Screening

  • Remove metal items (watches, belts, phones) before the metal detector
  • Place laptops and large electronics in separate trays
  • Liquids must be in containers smaller than 100ml and placed in a clear plastic bag
  • Expect multiple security checkpoints at Nigerian airports
  • Stay patient and follow instructions from security personnel

Finding Your Gate

  • Check your boarding pass for gate information
  • Monitor information screens for updates as gates can change
  • Allow sufficient time to reach your gate, especially at larger airports like Lagos (LOS)
  • Listen for boarding announcements (they may not always be clear)

On the Aircraft

Boarding and Seating

  • Board when your zone or row is called
  • Have your boarding pass ready for scanning
  • Find your seat using the numbers above the rows
  • Store smaller items under the seat in front of you
  • Place larger carry-ons in the overhead bins
  • Fasten your seatbelt whenever seated (especially when the seatbelt sign is on)

During the Flight

  • Pay attention to the safety demonstration
  • For ear pressure: yawn, swallow, or chew gum during takeoff and landing
  • Stay hydrated but limit bathroom trips during short domestic flights
  • Follow all crew instructions promptly

Arrival Procedures

After Landing

  • Remain seated until the aircraft has stopped completely and seatbelt signs are off
  • Check your seat area for personal belongings
  • Follow passenger flow to baggage claim or immigration (for international flights)

Immigration (International Flights)

  • Complete arrival forms (usually distributed during the flight)
  • Proceed to the appropriate immigration line (Nigerian passport or foreign passport)
  • Answer immigration officer questions clearly and concisely
  • Keep your documents easily accessible

Baggage Claim

  • Check screens to identify which carousel has your flight's baggage
  • Wait patiently as bags may take 15-45 minutes to appear
  • Report any damaged or missing luggage to your airline's representative immediately

Airport Exit

  • Keep your baggage tags until you exit the airport
  • Prepare for potential baggage verification before exit
  • Arrange transportation in advance or use official airport taxis
  • Be cautious of unauthorized transportation offers

Additional Tips for Nigerian Airports

  • Power outages: Charge devices before and bring a power bank
  • Currency: Carry small denominations of Naira for small purchases
  • Weather considerations: During rainy season, allow extra travel time to the airport
  • Airport officials: Only deal with uniformed staff with proper identification
  • Flight changes: Keep your phone charged and check for SMS updates from your airline

Conclusion

Your first flight from a Nigerian airport might seem intimidating, but with proper preparation, the experience can be smooth and enjoyable. Arrive early, have your documents organized, pack smart, and maintain a flexible attitude—these are the keys to a successful journey. Remember that every seasoned traveler was once a first-time flyer, and each trip gets easier as you become more familiar with the process.