Emirates, Air Peace resume scheduled flights as Nigeria, UAE lift restrictions

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates have resolved to lift travel restrictions that lasted over six months between the two countries.

The resolution was in accordance with a safety decision taken by the two countries to protect the interest of Emirates Airlines and Nigeria’s Air Peace in line with the Bilateral Air Services Agreement.

By this decision, Nigeria’s Minister for Aviation, Hadi Sirika, has approved the reinstatement of Emirates Airlines’ Winter Schedule with immediate effect.

In reciprocation, the minister also demanded that the UAE accommodates Nigeria’s Air Peace in its slot system effective March 1, 2022.

A statement signed by the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Musa Nuhu said both airlines must ensure strict compliance with Covid-19 protocols as they resume flights.

“Following the review and acceptance of the “Safety Decision 2021-02 Issue 24” as released by United Arab Emirates (UAE) General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) by the Federal Government, the Honourable Minister of Aviation has approved the reinstatement of Emirates Airlines Winter Schedule with immediate effect. All parties have been informed accordingly.

“Consequently, Air peace and Emirates Airlines are at liberty to resume scheduled passenger flights between Nigeria and UAE under the terms and conditions of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between the two countries.

“All parties must ensure strict compliance with the COVID-19 Travel Protocols of both countries.

“We wish to reassure the traveling public that the Federal Government would continue to ensure the provision of air services while protecting national’s interests at all times,” said the NCAA.