Arik Air Purchases Nigeria’s First New Commercial Jets In Over 25 Years From Boeing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Arik Air have announced an order for three 787-9s, two 777-200 LRs (Longer Range) and two 777-300ERs (Extended Range) at the delivery ceremony for two new 737-700s that will soon begin operations from the airline’s home base in Lagos, Nigeria. The list-price value of the new order is approximately $1.5 billion.

Lee Monson, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales for the Middle East and Africa, formally announced Arik Air’s order for the twin-aisle jets while hosting the airline’s chairman, Sir J.A.I. Johnson; the managing director, Mike McTighe; and Dr. Harold Olusegun Demuren, director general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, as well as a large visiting delegation from Nigeria.

“This is a big day for Boeing and for the advancement of Nigeria’s aviation sector,” Monson said. “We know from our many strong relationships with African carriers that viable airlines play an instrumental role in countries’ economic development. We’re proud that acquiring new Boeing jets is integral to Arik Air’s plans for modernization as they grow and prosper.”

Arik Air is the fourth airline on the African continent to order Boeing’s fast-selling 787 Dreamliner, as well as the fourth to order the market-leading 777. Boeing is currently working with Arik Air as the airline moves toward achieving Category 1 status with the FAA so that it may fly direct routes to and from the U.S.

“Arik Air has demonstrated its commitment to providing reliable, world-class air travel to and from Nigeria with an aggressive acquisition plan for the world’s most modern and advanced commercial jets,” said Arik’s McTighe. “This will allow for a staged and strategic expansion plan both regionally and internationally that provides the utmost in passenger comfort and safety.”

“Nigeria’s aviation sector has truly turned a corner and is headed in the right direction,” said Dr. Demuren, who was selected last year to lead Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority. “It’s very rewarding to be here today witnessing firsthand the unveiling of Arik Air’s new Boeing Next-Generation 737s and to know Boeing is committed to work with Nigeria as we implement vast and far-reaching commercial aviation improvements throughout the country.”