The Federal Government has granted Air Tanzania a Foreign Carrier Operation Permit (FCOP), paving the way for direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Lagos.
The approval, announced in Abuja, marks a significant step in strengthening aviation ties between Nigeria and Tanzania, with the aim of boosting regional connectivity, enhancing passenger convenience, and promoting bilateral trade and tourism.
According to the Ministry of Aviation, the permit is in line with Nigeria’s commitment to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a flagship African Union initiative aimed at liberalising air transport across the continent. Officials say the move will not only provide travellers with more options but also foster healthy competition in the aviation sector.
Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Benson Bana, expressed optimism about the development, revealing that Air Tanzania is fully prepared to commence operations once final regulatory clearances are obtained. He also disclosed that both countries are set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further cement cooperation in the aviation sector.
Industry experts believe the new route will cut travel time, reduce costs for passengers, and open up new opportunities for business and cultural exchange between the two nations.