BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has expanded its global reach after going live on the Amadeus Global Distribution System (GDS), a move expected to make its flights accessible to travel agents, corporate clients and travel management companies across the world.
The airline said the integration marks a significant milestone in its commercial and distribution strategy, enabling customers worldwide to search, book and manage United Nigeria Airlines flights directly through the Amadeus platform.
Industry stakeholders say the development will enhance the carrier’s visibility in the international travel marketplace and provide wider access to its services as it seeks to strengthen its position in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Speaking on the launch, United Nigeria Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adedayo Olawuyi, described the integration as a major advancement in the airline’s efforts to improve customer access and expand its market presence.
According to him, the partnership will allow the airline to connect with a broader global audience while improving convenience for both domestic and international travellers.
“Our integration with Amadeus represents a major leap forward in our commitment to providing convenient and efficient access to our services. It opens up United Nigeria Airlines to a wider global audience and strengthens our ability to serve both domestic and international travelers through trusted travel partners, while also enabling us to scale distribution, deepen market penetration, and enhance overall customer convenience.
“With this launch, UNA joins a network of leading global carriers leveraging Amadeus GDS to deliver improved booking experiences, real-time inventory access, and enhanced fare management capabilities,” Olawuyi said.
The Amadeus GDS is one of the world’s largest travel technology and distribution platforms, connecting airlines with travel agencies, corporate travel buyers and booking platforms across multiple markets.
By joining the network, United Nigeria Airlines gains access to a vast global distribution channel that can drive ticket sales and support future expansion plans.
The development comes as the airline continues to invest in fleet growth and network expansion.
United Nigeria Airlines recently added more Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft to its fleet and is expected to unveil another aircraft on June 18 as part of efforts to meet increasing passenger demand and improve operational efficiency.
The carrier also disclosed that it is exploring regional expansion opportunities and strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening connectivity and supporting long-term growth across its network.
Speaking during the launch event at the airline’s Lagos office, Amadeus Regional General Manager, Yaan Gilbert, said the agreement reflects the company’s commitment to supporting the growth of Africa’s aviation industry through modern travel technology solutions.
“This major partnership perfectly illustrates Amadeus’ core commitment: focusing and investing deeply in Africa to support the region’s booming aviation market, modernize travel tech infrastructure, and connect local carriers to the global stage.
“By joining forces with United Nigeria Airlines, now the second largest airline in Nigeria, driving phenomenal growth with over 120,000 passengers per month, we are unlocking incredible new opportunities,” Gilbert said.
He noted that the partnership immediately broadens the airline’s presence in the global travel ecosystem, making its flight inventory available to hundreds of thousands of travel agencies and travel partners worldwide.
With the Amadeus platform now fully operational for the airline, customers booking through travel agencies and corporate travel platforms can access real-time flight schedules, fares and seat availability.
The integration is expected to strengthen United Nigeria Airlines’ competitiveness, support revenue growth and position the carrier for further expansion as it seeks a larger share of Nigeria’s rapidly evolving aviation market.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
