Southwest Selling 10 Old Boeing 737s to This Airline

6 godzin temu

DALLAS- United Nigeria Airlines (U5) has signed a purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines (WN) to acquire six Boeing 737-800 aircraft, with plans to secure up to ten of these ex-Southwest jets by early 2027. This strategic move follows their existing operations, including flights to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) and other domestic bases.

The agreement will significantly boost capacity, enabling United Nigeria to expand its route network across domestic, regional, and international markets. The airline’s leadership expects the larger fleet to support efficient travel and reduce stopovers for passengers, Flight Global reported.

United Nigeria to Acquire 10 Southwest 737

United Nigeria Airlines aims to induct six Boeing 737-800s initially, with the possibility of adding four more, bringing the total to ten. These jets will join the current fleet of Embraer ERJ-145 and Boeing 737-500 aircraft, enabling scalable growth.

The 737-800 series offers a range of approximately 2,935 nautical miles and improved fuel efficiency, helping reduce operational costs and environmental impact. The acquisition reflects the airline’s drive for profitability, increased reliability, and improved passenger comfort.

Here’s how Southwest Airlines configured its 737-800:

Feature Details

Seat Type	175 Collins slimline seats
Configuration	3-3 layout
Headrest	4-way adjustable
Row Pitch	32″ standard; 38″ at row 14; 35″ at row 15
Seat Width	17″
Recline Type	Pre-reclining; seat slides forward in reclined position

United Nigeria configures its Embraer ERJ145s with 50 economy seats. So one can expect the 737-800s it acquired from WN to be operated in an all-economy configuration, too.

Operational Impact

The expanded fleet will allow United Nigeria to enhance domestic frequency and offer new regional routes, such as Accra, Ghana, and beyond.

By early 2026, they expect improved market presence via direct services, leveraging fuel-efficient aircraft to serve both short and medium-haul markets.

Expansion Timeline

Late 2025: Delivery of six ex-Southwest 737-800 aircraft commences.
2026–2027: Potential induction of up to four additional 737-800s to complete the ten-aircraft plan.
Early 2026: Expanded domestic, regional, and international route launch.

Benefits for United Nigeria

Executive Chairman, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, stated that upgrading to the 737-800 will enable profitable expansion. He emphasized point-to-point travel efficiency, reduced layovers, and competitive fares.

On the other hand, Boeing’s regional sales VP, Anbessie Yitbarek, affirmed the aircraft’s suitability for United Nigeria’s growth trajectory.

United Nigeria’s leadership anticipates that this fleet expansion will generate employment and contribute to economic development. Thousands of direct and indirect jobs are expected from training, operations, and support services.

Bottom Line

United Nigeria praised Southwest’s maintenance standards, indicating an ongoing collaboration for training and support. This cooperation will likely ensure smooth fleet integration and high operational reliability.

The acquisition underscores Nigeria’s growing footprint in global aviation by enhancing the airline’s capacity to connect people and cargo efficiently.

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