The Nigerian government is considering reigniting discussions with Ethiopian Airlines to establish a new national carrier under a fresh identity, according to sources cited by Punch Newspaper. This move comes after the collapse of the Nigeria Air project in 2024, which had initially planned for Ethiopian Airlines to hold a 49% stake. The Nigeria Air initiative, championed by former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika, was scrapped following a change in administration. The new government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, dismissed the project, criticizing it as a poorly structured deal that did not prioritize Nigerian interests. In August 2024, the Lagos High Court declared the project “null and void” after a legal challenge by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), who argued that it would unfairly impact local carriers. Allegations of corruption surrounding the project remain under investigation. Despite initial diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and Ethiopia over the failed venture, recent reports suggest that both nations have resumed dialogue. While Minister Keyamo visited Ethiopian Airlines, he denied any active talks about reviving the national carrier. However, industry insiders believe that alternative plans could be under review. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, permanent secretary at Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, also clarified that while there’s an ongoing conversation about establishing a national carrier, it does not involve reinstating the Nigeria Air deal. If successful, a new partnership could strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector while fostering regional cooperation. As the government navigates the complexities of this potential collaboration, stakeholders remain keenly interested in how future developments might reshape the country’s airline industry. For more insights on African aviation trends, visit Africa Aviation Industry News. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
The Federal Government is reviewing the possibility of terminating the N90 billion contract for constructing a second runway at Abuja International Airport. This decision follows the contractor’s controversial request for a cost variation. The proposed adjustment increases the project cost to a staggering N532 billion—a 491% hike from the initial contract sum. Keyamo Criticizes the Variation Request Speaking during his budget defense session before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Aviation, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, labeled the variation request as unreasonable. “If a contract was awarded for N90 billion, and within two years they are proposing N532 billion, I won’t accept it. The president himself dislikes such variations. My option is to cancel the contract,” Keyamo stated. The minister revealed that N30 billion had already been disbursed to the contractor as part of the mobilization process. Additionally, compensation was paid to affected communities for land use. However, despite initial progress, including excavation and preparatory works, the massive cost increase has brought the project to a standstill. Options on the Table Keyamo disclosed that two alternative proposals are under consideration. He plans to present these to President Bola Tinubu after consulting relevant stakeholders. While no final decision has been reached, canceling the contract remains a likely option if the variation request is not withdrawn. 2025 Budget Insights According to a report from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Ministry of Aviation has proposed a total budget of N71 billion for 2025. Of this, N69 billion is allocated for capital projects, while personnel and overhead costs are estimated at N1 billion and N745 million, respectively. Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, Chairman of the Joint Committee, emphasized the importance of maximizing allocated funds and ensuring accountability. He assured that the committee would intensify oversight efforts, particularly for critical projects like the second runway. Buhari also commended Keyamo for his efforts in revitalizing the aviation sector, noting that the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has been reinstated in the 2025 budget after being excluded in 2023 and 2024. Call for Accountability The Joint Committee urged aviation agencies to improve their responsiveness to National Assembly invitations, stressing that effective oversight is vital for transparency and accountability in executing government projects. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A Swiss Airlines crew member passed away following an emergency landing in Graz, Austria. Learn about the tragic incident and the airline’s response. Swiss International Air Lines has announced the heartbreaking loss of one of its crew members following an emergency landing on December 23. The tragic incident occurred during a flight from Bucharest to Zurich when the Airbus A220-300 experienced engine issues, forcing it to land in Graz, Austria. Incident Overview The flight carried 74 passengers and five crew members when smoke began filling the cockpit and cabin, prompting the immediate diversion. The affected crew member was hospitalized in Graz but tragically passed away on December 25. Statement from Swiss Airlines In a heartfelt statement, Swiss Airlines expressed their deep sorrow over the loss. “We must report, with the deepest of sorrow and regret, that our young colleague died in the hospital in Graz on Monday,” the airline said. Swiss Airlines CEO Jens Fehlinger described the incident as a devastating blow to the company. “We are devastated at our dear colleague’s death,” he said. “Our thoughts are with his family, whose pain we cannot imagine. I offer them my heartfelt condolences on behalf of all of us at Swiss. And we will, of course, be doing everything in our power to help and support them at this extremely difficult time.” READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A devastating plane crash in Gramado, southern Brazil, claimed the lives of at least nine people on Sunday morning. The small aircraft tragically collided with a commercial area in the popular tourist city, according to local authorities. The plane, identified as a Piper Cheyenne 400 turboprop, struck the chimney of a building, hit the second floor of a residential house, and ultimately crashed into a furniture store, the Rio Grande do Sul state security secretariat confirmed in an official statement. Cleber dos Santos Lima, director of the Interior Police Department of the state civil police, stated, “The civil defense has confirmed nine fatalities, and there are no survivors from the crash.” Authorities are still determining the exact number of passengers and crew on board but initially estimated 10 individuals might have been traveling on the plane. Additionally, at least 15 people were hospitalized, most of them suffering from smoke inhalation due to the fire caused by the crash. The ill-fated flight originated from Canela, another tourist hotspot in the Rio Grande do Sul region. Gramado, known for its vibrant tourism industry, sees an increased number of visitors, particularly during the festive Christmas season. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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United Airlines Strengthens African Presence with Daily Nigeria-Washington Flights On December 4, 2025, United Airlines, a leading U.S. carrier, commenced daily direct flights from Nigeria to Washington, marking a significant step in its African expansion strategy. In a virtual interview, Oluwatomi Bola-Sadipe, United’s Country Sales Manager for Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, and Thorsten Lettnin, Director of Sales for Continental Europe, Middle East, Africa, Israel, and India, shared insights on the airline’s strategies, challenges, and future plans. United Airlines’ 2025 Vision for Africa Lettnin: “In 2025, United Airlines will offer non-stop services to 44 destinations in the Atlantic region, the highest in our history. Africa has been a major focus in this expansion. While we didn’t operate any routes to Africa pre-2019, by 2025, we will fly to six African destinations, including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Morocco. This growth underscores our commitment to offering our customers more choices and opportunities.” Africa: A Strategic Priority Bola-Sadipe: “Africa is integral to United Airlines’ business. Adding Dakar, Senegal, to our routes in May 2025 and Marrakech, Morocco, in October 2024 demonstrates our dedication to connecting Africa with the world. These expansions highlight Africa’s growing importance to United.” United Airlines has also prioritized its Nigerian operations by deploying the advanced Dreamliner 787-8 aircraft, offering world-class services through cabins like Polaris, Premium Plus, Economy Plus, and Economy. This move caters to a wide range of travelers, from business professionals to families. Daily Flights from Nigeria to Washington From December 4, 2025, to February 14, 2026, United Airlines will operate daily flights from Nigeria to Washington. These night departures from Nigeria ensure early morning arrivals in the U.S., making it convenient for travelers to connect to over 70 destinations from Washington D.C. Bola-Sadipe: “This winter schedule supports leisure, business, and medical travelers. By offering direct flights with consistent premium products, we are meeting the needs of the Nigerian market while reinforcing our commitment to the region.” Navigating Challenges in the Nigerian Market United Airlines recognizes the economic challenges facing Nigeria, including high inflation. Despite these difficulties, passenger traffic has been strong, prompting the airline to expand its services. Bola-Sadipe: “Inflation has affected passenger preferences, but our Dreamliner 787 caters to diverse needs. From business travelers in Polaris to families in Economy, we provide competitive pricing and excellent service to ensure a seamless travel experience.” Formula for Success in Africa United Airlines credits its success in Africa to offering consistent, high-quality products and leveraging market intelligence. Lettnin: “To thrive in Africa, we ensure 100% product consistency and the best connectivity through hubs like Washington. This approach allows us to meet customer expectations and compete effectively in the aviation sector.” Commitment to Excellence United Airlines continues to invest in Africa by addressing market needs and expanding its footprint. With state-of-the-art aircraft, top-tier services, and a customer-centric approach, the airline is positioning itself as a leader in connecting Africa to the United States. For more updates on United Airlines’ African routes and services, stay tuned. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The incident occurred a few days after the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)-owned and operated East Wind Aviation’s helicopter crashed among the Rivers State capital’s waterways. The wreckage of the helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has been found, according to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB). Bimbo Oladeji, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance for the NSIB, says as much. “The allied team and partners leading the charge for the search and recovery efforts of the ditched Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, have located its wreckage,” she said in a statement late Thursday, according to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB). Eight people were on board the Eastwind Aviation-operated chopper when it crashed in the October 24, 2024, Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima. The wreckage was discovered during last night’s recovery dives, just 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon, according to the NSIB. With coordinates of latitude 04° 13.634′ N and longitude 008° 19.442′ E, it was 42 meters below the surface. Currently, efforts are being made to collect the wreckage of the helicopter. Today, the helicopter’s tail boom has already been successfully recovered and raised out of the sea. Following the action, NSIB Director General Alex Badeh Jr. praised the recovery efforts of the partners and allied team. “Finding the wreckage is a crucial step in our investigation into the circumstances of this terrible accident,” he stated. “The commitment and collaboration demonstrated by all parties concerned have been outstanding, and we are committed to carrying out a comprehensive inquiry to give the families of those impacted clarity and closure. The agency reports that more efforts are underway to collect the wreckage. The incident occurred a few days after the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)-owned and operated East Wind Aviation’s helicopter crashed among the Rivers State capital’s waterways. Starting from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM), the plane headed for the FPSO-NUIMS Antan oil site. READ ALSO: Bobrisky plead for help as security operatives pull him out of London flight There were eight confirmed passengers. But thus far, just four bodies have been found. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our NewsLetter.
