Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier, Flyadeal, has made its debut in Nigeria with an inaugural flight into Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano.
The airline, a subsidiary of Saudia, plans to extend operations to Abuja and Lagos after its Kano launch, targeting the busy Hajj and Umrah travel market.
Deputy President (Umrah), Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) in the northern region, Sabitu Abdulaziz Mohammed, said the move would ease long-standing challenges faced by pilgrims and travelers.
“The inauguration of Flyadeal is another milestone in the history of aviation in Northern Nigeria. For too long, our people have suffered from limited flight options to Saudi Arabia. With this partnership, we expect greater competition and reduced ticket costs,” he said.
Kano, one of Nigeria’s busiest pilgrimage hubs, currently hosts Saudia, Qatar Airways, EgyptAir, and Ethiopian Airlines. The entry of Flyadeal is expected to deepen competition and make fares more affordable.
