What’s the Problem with Nigerian Airlines? Ibom Air A220 Flight

Nigeria has one of Africa's largest GDP and population but commercial aviation is very underdeveloped. I tried out Nigeria’s Ibom Air A220. Can Nigerian airlines succeed and be Africa’s next aviation giant?

I flew with Ibom Air's new A220 from Lagos to Abuja and back. The new A220 features both Business and Economy cabin. Boarding was smooth and orderly. The pilots explained about the flight operation. Cabin crew serves all passengers a snack pack during the short Abuja flight. The deplane was called by row number and was very orderly.

I did a quick turnaround in Abuja, taking the same flight returning to Lagos that evening. Despite the poor airport experience, my overall experience with Ibom Air was encouraging. But it does leave me wonder how can commercial aviation develop further in Nigeria? There are massive potential but there are so many obstacles in the way….