Four years after entering Nigeria’s aviation industry with a ceremonial water cannon salute, United Nigeria Airline (UNA) has taken a bold step towards global integration by joining the Global Distribution System (GDS) through a strategic partnership with Sabre Technologies.
The move, announced during a joint media event held at the airline’s headquarters, positions UNA for broader market access, as Sabre-connected travel agents across the globe can now access and book the airline’s fares and inventory. The development is seen as a significant milestone in UNA’s journey from domestic consolidation to regional and international expansion.
“Choosing Sabre marks a turning point for us,” said Mazi Osita Okonkwo, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of United Nigeria Airlines. “For the first time, we’re placing our products on a global travel marketplace, broadening our reach and connecting with international travellers.”
The Sabre platform serves as a central reservation system used by travel agents to access flight schedules, pricing, and real-time availability from multiple travel providers. UNA’s listing on the system is expected to enhance its booking capabilities, boost revenue, and improve brand visibility among global travel stakeholders.
Regional Launch Plans Set for August
Chairman and Founder of UNA, Professor Obiorah Okonkwo, disclosed plans to commence regional operations on August 25, 2025, with a scheduled inaugural flight to Accra, Ghana. Additional West African cities, including Dakar, are also in the pipeline, alongside planned long-haul services to Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.
“We’re working hard to meet regulatory requirements and are fully committed to expanding our footprint beyond Nigeria. The federal government has already granted us approval to operate flights to the UAE,” Prof. Okonkwo stated.
Presently, United Nigeria Airline services 13 domestic destinations—Abuja, Lagos, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Asaba, Anambra, Kano, Warri, Katsina, Sokoto, Bayelsa, and Benin. The airline plans to introduce new routes to Jos, Maiduguri, and Bauchi in the near future.
Sabre Affirms Commitment to Growth
Speaking on behalf of Sabre Technologies, Dr. Joshua Olowo, President of Sabre Central and West Africa, expressed enthusiasm over the partnership. “We are excited to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the Sabre marketplace. This aligns with our mission to help local carriers grow by providing them with global distribution tools.”
Alessandro Ciancimino, Vice President of Airline Distribution for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) at Sabre, said the collaboration is aimed at scaling UNA’s distribution network and revenue capacity.
“Joining the Sabre travel marketplace increases UNA’s access to international content and unlocks new opportunities for growth,” Ciancimino noted.
Looking Ahead
As UNA takes its place in the global airline community, stakeholders view the GDS integration as a critical foundation for future interline agreements and codeshare partnerships—key enablers for international service delivery.
The development underscores UNA’s operational strategy to blend digital innovation with ambitious market outreach, ensuring it remains a competitive force within Nigeria while preparing for a broader role across Africa and beyond.
With digital platforms activated and regional routes lined up, United Nigeria Airline is setting a course for growth, proving that with vision and partnerships, even a young airline can soar beyond borders.
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