Market News
Delta Air to commence direct flight to Nigeria December - PUNCH
The United States’ oldest operating airline and the seventh-oldest operating globally, Delta Air Lines, has finalised plans to reintroduce daily flights from Lagos State to New York in December 2024.
With this development, the airline will transition from the Airbus A330-200, which accommodates 223 passengers, to the more spacious Airbus A330-900neo, capable of carrying 281 passengers.
This was contained in a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Monday, stating that the enhancement not only signifies an increase in capacity but also aims to provide an elevated travel experience for the flying public.
“This decision underscores Delta’s dedication to aligning its services with customer preferences and the evolving dynamics of air travel,” the statement stated.
The airline’s Head of Sales for West Africa, Mary Gbobaniyi, expressed excitement saying this development, “which will add more flights to the Nigerian market, could not have been better timed. Increased capacity and a larger aircraft mean more options and an elevated experience for our customers.
“As the leading global airline, Delta’s mission to connect the world creates opportunities, fosters understanding and expands horizons by connecting people and communities to each other and to their own potential.
“An essential element of Delta’s operational philosophy is our continuous monitoring of customer preferences and travel patterns. By closely examining where customers wish to fly, Delta effectively matches capacity to meet demand.”
The aviation company noted that its decision for a direct flight was borne out of customers’ feed.
“The decision to expand services to Lagos is a direct response to positive customer feedback regarding Delta’s offerings and the overall demand in the market,” the statement read.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, Delta advises “passengers traveling on flights from Lagos to arrive at the airport for check-in no later than three hours before departure to overcome airport security screening challenges.”
The airline also advised passengers to check-in 90 minutes before departure, saying, “Arriving at the weighing scales at the close of counters will not guarantee check-in and will be considered late.”
These guidelines, Delta says, will help provide its passengers with the best service and a stress-free travel process.
The statement further reads, “Premium travellers on the New York-Lagos route will have the opportunity to enjoy the Delta One Lounge at John F. Kennedy International Airport. This exclusive lounge offers a range of high-end amenities, including gourmet dining options, luxurious seating areas, and personalised services.
“Designed to enhance the travel experience, the Delta One Lounge provides a serene environment for passengers to relax before their flights, making it a perfect complement to the premium travel experience on this route.”
