Air Tanzania CEO unveils trade, tourism prospects on new Lagos–Dar es Salaam route
Air Tanzania CEO unveils trade, tourism prospects on new Lagos–Dar es Salaam route
Air Tanzania has officially launched direct flights between Lagos, Nigeria, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, creating new opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Speaking at the inauguration, the airline’s CEO, Peter Ulanga, emphasized that the new route supports the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). He highlighted that the service will encourage bilateral commerce, such as Nigerian yams entering Tanzanian markets and Tanzanian coffee reaching Nigeria, while also promoting tourism by showcasing Tanzania’s attractions like the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar, as well as Nigeria’s vibrant cultural identity.
The Lagos–Dar es Salaam route will initially operate three times weekly, with plans to expand passenger and cargo services, including a 54-tonne freighter capacity. Ulanga affirmed Air Tanzania’s commitment to safety, excellence, and strengthening East–West African ties. He also thanked Nigerian authorities, the Tanzanian government, and partners like CRDB Bank, NIC, UTT AMIS, and Boeing for their support.
Prof. Godius Kahyarara, Permanent Secretary of Tanzania’s Ministry of Transport, stressed that Nigeria, as Africa’s second-largest economy, represents a strategic partner in boosting connectivity and investment. He credited President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership for advancing Air Tanzania with a modern fleet of 16 aircraft.
The launch ceremony drew government officials, business leaders, tourism stakeholders, logistics operators, and members of the African diaspora. Tanzania’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Selestine Kakele, described the development as a “bridge across the skies” linking the two nations. Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, represented by Mrs. Janet Oputa, congratulated Air Tanzania and pledged government support to ensure the success of the new route.
