Air Tanzania Set to Commence Direct Flights Between Dar es Salaam – Lagos
Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) has announced the launch of its maiden direct flight between Dar es Salaam and Lagos, scheduled for Friday, 19th September 2025, marking a new chapter in aviation and trade relations between Tanzania and Nigeria.
Speaking on the sidelines of the AKWAABA African Travel Market, a delegation from the Tanzanian Government confirmed that the airline had successfully secured a Foreign Carrier Operation Permit (FCOP) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), paving the way for its operations into West Africa’s largest economy.
The launch aligns with the broader vision of AKWAABA in promoting African tourism and advancing seamless intra-continental connectivity.
According to ATCL, the new route is also in line with the policy statement issued by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who committed to “reconnecting Tanzania to the world and bringing the world to Tanzania.”
“This is not merely an achievement but the fulfilment of a promise,” the airline said, noting that the route will boost bilateral relations, foster tourism, encourage cultural exchange, and strengthen trade and investment ties between both countries. The flights will also support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agenda by promoting intra-African trade.
Founded in 1977 as Tanzania’s national flag carrier, ATCL has undergone significant restructuring and transformation over the years. Recent investments by the government have enabled the airline to modernise its fleet, expand its network, and enhance customer service.
The airline now operates a versatile fleet that includes the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for long-haul services, Airbus A220-300s, Boeing 737 MAX, De Havilland Dash 8-Q400s, and a Boeing 767-300 freighter with a 54-tonne cargo capacity.
With the addition of Lagos, ATCL’s network now spans domestic destinations across Tanzania, regional hubs such as Nairobi, Lusaka, Harare, Johannesburg, Kinshasa, and Entebbe, as well as international cities including Dubai, Mumbai, and Guangzhou. Lagos becomes its first West African destination.
ATCL emphasised affordability as part of its market strategy, introducing special promotional fares at USD 399 for return tickets on the Dar es Salaam–Lagos route. The airline’s service portfolio includes scheduled passenger flights, cargo operations, charter services, and VIP/corporate travel.
Passengers can expect to enjoy Tanzanian hospitality onboard, alongside modern amenities and a customer-centred service culture rooted in the national ethos of “uhuru na umoja” – freedom and brotherhood.
To support accessibility, the airline has invested in multiple distribution channels including an interactive website, mobile app, ticketing offices, travel agency partnerships, and customer care centres.
As a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), ATCL maintains strict adherence to global safety and operational standards. Its technical staff and crew undergo regular training and certification to ensure world-class safety and service delivery.
ATCL described the Lagos route as more than an operational milestone, calling it a symbol of Pan-African unity and prosperity. “This launch opens new avenues for trade, tourism, cultural exchange, and government cooperation between Nigeria and Tanzania,” the airline stated, while extending gratitude to the Government of Nigeria, NCAA, and its local partners for their support.
With its latest expansion, Air Tanzania positions itself as a vital bridge connecting East and West Africa. Passengers travelling from the Indian Ocean coastline to Nigeria’s commercial capital are assured of warm hospitality and reliable service.
“Karibu sana – welcome aboard!” ATCL declared, inviting travellers to embrace this new era of African connectivity.
