United Nigeria Airlines Partners with Guinea-Bissau Government to Launch National Carrier
Nigeria’s United Nigeria Airlines is embarking on an ambitious venture by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Guinea-Bissau to establish Air Bissau, the national carrier for the West African nation. This pivotal partnership, announced in the capital city of Bissau, aims to enhance Guinea-Bissau’s connectivity with regional and global destinations.
The agreement was finalized by Dr. Florentino Mendez Pereira, Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Transport, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy, and Professor Obiola Okonkwo, Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines. Both parties herald this collaboration as a transformative step for Guinea-Bissau’s aviation sector, facilitating better access for both citizens and businesses.
Historically, Guinea-Bissau has depended on regional airlines and charter services for international travel. This new partnership is set to shift that reliance. Under the terms of the MoU, a comprehensive cooperation framework will be established, paving the way for a fully operational national airline. The Osvaldo Vieira International Airport will serve as the airline’s operational base and initial hub for flight routes.
The memorandum also lays the groundwork for a joint venture intended to operate the national airline, with United Nigeria Airlines contributing significant financial investment, operational expertise, aircraft, and management. As part of this venture, the Nigerian airline will provide and operate executive jets for government officials of Guinea-Bissau.
The Guinea-Bissau government will facilitate the registration and licensing of the new airline, ensuring that national laws are adhered to. This process will include cooperation with both the Guinea-Bissau Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority to streamline licensing procedures. The government has also committed to designating the new airline as the official national carrier, which will enforce rights to existing Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASA). This designation is expected to enhance the airline’s ability to secure route rights, a critical component for successful commercial operations.
To strengthen the operational readiness of Air Bissau, the government will ensure that Osvaldo Vieira International Airport receives the necessary infrastructure support, encompassing ground handling, customs, immigration, and compliance with security regulations. Moreover, authorities are exploring protective measures to stimulate investment in the establishment of state-owned enterprises while adhering to current investment laws and tax regulations.
United Nigeria Airlines is also dedicated to fostering local talent through training programs for Guinean nationals, including pilots, flight attendants, and technical maintenance personnel. The initiative underscores the airline’s commitment to empowering the local workforce in alignment with government employment policies.
The memorandum stipulates that the strategic management and operational oversight of the new airline will be the responsibility of United Nigeria Airlines. This structure aims to prioritize safety, reliability, and operational efficiency. Mutual protection measures will be actively pursued, encompassing full liability and hull insurance for flight operations, as well as annual independent safety audits to maintain compliance with international standards. Additionally, robust mechanisms will safeguard United Nigeria Airlines’ investments amidst any unfavorable shifts in Guinea-Bissau’s policy or regulatory landscape.
The MoU is effective immediately upon signing and will remain active for 18 months or until a comprehensive joint venture agreement is finalized.
