Tanzania’s national airline, Air Tanzania, has officially received a Foreign Carrier Operation Permit (FCOP) from the Nigerian government, paving the way for the launch of direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos.
The permit, which was presented on Tuesday at the Nigerian Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Abuja, marks a major breakthrough in improving air connectivity between East and West Africa.
According to Nigerian aviation authorities, the new route is expected to boost trade, tourism, and investment between the two countries, while also strengthening bilateral ties.
“The presentation of the FCOP to Air Tanzania is a significant step in promoting aviation cooperation and excellence. We are confident this initiative will yield positive outcomes for both nations,” said Permanent Secretary Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, in a statement delivered by senior official Ahmed Mohammed.
Once launched, the route will offer a direct link between Tanzania and Nigeria—West Africa’s largest economy. This is expected to cut travel time, reduce transit costs, and increase opportunities for businesses, tourists, and travelers between both regions.
“The movement of people, goods, and services across Africa has long been held back by limited regional connectivity. This partnership will help bridge that gap,” noted Selestine Gervas Kakele, Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between both nations is in the final stages of preparation. As part of the agreement, Air Tanzania will be required to upload passenger information into Nigeria’s AVITECH portal, a system that monitors foreign carrier compliance.
“We are excited to welcome Air Tanzania into our airspace. Nigeria’s aviation market offers strong growth potential, and we look forward to their first flight,” said Yinka Babaoye Iriobe, NCAA’s Director of Air Traffic Regulation.
Additionally, Air Tanzania has completed all mandatory regulatory checks, including a base inspection and approval of its Local Security Operation Procedures. The airline is now in the process of securing office space at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and residency permits for staff.
Air Tanzania’s expansion into Nigeria is part of its broader regional strategy to become a key player in African aviation. It also aligns with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agenda, which encourages intra-African trade and connectivity.
“This move strengthens the vision of a more connected Africa,” said a representative from Tanzania’s Ministry of Transport, who requested anonymity. “It’s not just about flights; it’s about economic and cultural integration.”
Although Air Tanzania has not yet announced the exact date for the inaugural flight, sources indicate that ticket sales will begin shortly, and flights are expected to commence within the next few weeks.
Passengers will soon be able to fly non-stop between Dar es Salaam and Lagos—a route that previously required long layovers in Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg.
With the FCOP in hand and regulatory groundwork nearly complete, Air Tanzania is on course to become a pioneer in East-West African aviation. The new route is a game-changer not only for Tanzania and Nigeria, but also for the wider African aviation and business ecosystem.
Stay tuned to The Eastleigh Voice for updates on the launch date, ticket information, and exclusive interviews with aviation stakeholders.
