Algeria's national carrier, Air Algérie, is set to launch direct flight services to Nigeria on April 6, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the growing diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. The launch follows the approval of a Foreign Carrier Operating Permit by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, allowing Air Algérie to operate commercial flights between Algeria, Nigeria, and Douala, Cameroon.

The new route is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, economic collaboration, and diplomatic ties between Algeria and Nigeria, while also benefiting trade and tourism across North and West Africa. This expansion marks a significant step in enhancing aviation partnerships and fostering economic integration between both nations.

The launch of direct flights between Nigeria and Algeria is a direct result of the meeting between Nigeria's Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, and Algeria's Ambassador to Nigeria, Mezoued Hosine, earlier this year. During their meeting, they discussed the renewal of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Algeria, paving the way for air travel between the two countries.

The existing Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and Algeria primarily specified routes between Algiers and Lagos. However, recent diplomatic efforts by the Algerian delegation have led to the reopening of the Algiers-Lagos route and the expansion of the agreement to include Abuja.

The meeting focused on finalizing arrangements for the BASA, which includes the launch of an air route linking Algiers, Abuja, and Douala, Cameroon. As a result of this agreement, Air Algeria will commence direct flights from Algiers to Abuja on April 6, 2025, operated by a Boeing 737 Aircraft.

This new route will enhance connectivity, promote tourism, and facilitate trade and investment between Nigeria, Algeria, and the broader African region. It will also provide opportunities for businesses, tourists, and investors to explore the vast potential of both countries.

The launch of direct flights is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, economic collaboration, and diplomatic ties between Algeria and Nigeria. This development is a significant step forward in enhancing aviation partnerships and fostering economic integration between both nations, and is expected to have a positive impact on trade and tourism across North and West Africa.

In conclusion, the launch of direct flights between Algeria and Nigeria marks a significant milestone in the growing diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. As the aviation industry continues to play a critical role in facilitating economic growth and development, this new route is expected to have a positive impact on the region, promoting tourism, trade, and investment between Nigeria, Algeria, and the broader African region.