MONTREAL — Air Canada aims to launch scheduled service to Lagos in 2027 and is starting the process to obtaining the necessary government approvals to operate commercial flights to Nigeria.

The news came just an hour or so after the Canadian government announced an expanded Air Transport Agreement between Canada and Nigeria.

“We welcome this expanded Air Transport Agreement and look forward to obtaining the necessary government approvals to begin service to Lagos, Nigeria in the coming year,” said Mary-Jane Lorette, VP, Revenue Management, Partnerships, and International Affairs at Air Canada.

Minister of Transport Steven MacKinnon added: “By expanding our air transport agreements, we are creating new opportunities for Canadian airlines and giving travellers more choice. The newly expanded Canada-Nigeria Air Transport Agreement will strengthen our economic ties, support tourism and trade, and making it easier for people and businesses in both countries to connect.”

The expanded agreement includes the right for Canada and Nigeria to designate multiple airlines to operate scheduled air services between the two countries, with a capacity allowance of 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for the airlines of each country.

Air Canada said details including schedules and aircraft will be announced in due course, and noted that the new service remains subject to receipt of government approval and completion of applicable processes to operate in Nigeria.