September 22, (THEWILL) — Air Tanzania, the national carrier of the United Republic of Tanzania, has launched direct flight services to Lagos, opening a new chapter in Nigeria–Tanzania relations.
At the same time, Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc has secured the contract to provide ground handling operations for Air Tanzania at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Under the agreement, SAHCO will provide passenger, baggage, ramp, and cargo handling, as well as warehousing and other aviation-related services.
The new route will operate three times weekly—Dar es Salaam to Lagos on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with return flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The service is expected to enhance connectivity, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between both countries.
The inaugural ceremony in Lagos attracted top government officials and aviation stakeholders, who highlighted the service as a key step toward advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Tanzania’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Selestine Kakele, described the flight as a “bridge across the skies” linking two of Africa’s largest economies. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, represented by Mrs. Janet Oputa, said the route would deepen bilateral trade, tourism, and cultural ties.
Prof. Godius Kahyarara, Permanent Secretary of Tanzania’s Ministry of Transport, said the development reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of positioning Air Tanzania as a leading African carrier. He noted that the airline operates a modern fleet of 16 aircraft with an average age of 4.5 years.
Welcoming the partnership, SAHCO Managing Director/CEO, Mrs. Adenike Aboderin, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Air Tanzania to Lagos and honoured to be chosen as their ground handling partner. This contract reflects our expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and commitment to operational excellence and safety.”
SAHCO, which operates across all commercially active airports in Nigeria, has become the preferred handler for several international airlines due to its reputation for seamless, safe, and efficient services. The company has also invested in modern ground support equipment powered by alternative energy sources to reduce carbon emissions.
Recently, SAHCO added Ethiopian Airlines to its growing portfolio, providing daily handling services for the carrier’s flights between Addis Ababa and Lagos.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
