The United States and Nigeria have taken a significant step towards enhancing their bilateral aviation relationship by announcing the reintroduction of an Air Transport Agreement. This agreement, which has been provisionally applied since 2000, came into force on May 13, 2024.
The Public Diplomacy Department of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria stated that this modern civil aviation relationship is consistent with the U.S. Open Skies international aviation policy and commitments to high standards of aviation safety and security.
The benefits of this agreement include provisions for unrestricted capacity and frequency of services, open route rights, a liberal charter regime, and open code-sharing opportunities. This move is seen as a step forward in liberalizing the international civil aviation sector in Africa and further expanding the strong economic and commercial partnership between the U.S. and Nigeria.
According to the statement, the agreement will also promote people-to-people ties and create new opportunities for airlines, travel companies, and customers. It is expected to lead to more affordable, convenient, and efficient air services for travellers and shippers, thereby promoting tourism and commerce.
