Dubai-based Emirates plans to upgrade the aircraft on its Abuja route to a Boeing 777-200ER, starting from October 1.

Emirates launched a daily service to Abuja, its second Nigerian gateway and 22nd passenger destination in Africa, on August 1 using the Airbus A340-300.

The new aircraft will offer 274 seats in the three cabins; 12 luxurious lie-flat seats in First Class, 42 deeply reclining seats in Business Class, and generous space for 220 seats in Economy Class.

“The upgrade of our Abuja service to a Boeing 777 demonstrates our commitment to Nigeria market and another step to ensure we offer world class products to our customers in Nigeria. Since its launch on August 1, Emirates boosted international tourism and trade in Abuja from a raft of destinations in the Far East, West Asia, Middle East, Europe and North America,” said Adil Al Ghaith, Emirates' senior vice president commercial operations, Northern and Western Africa.

The airline currently operates twice daily to Lagos and daily to Abuja, giving a total of nearly 14,000 seats per week.

“Emirates constantly strives to provide its passengers with the very best service and the introduction of a Boeing B777-200 ER reflects that commitment. Our 777-200ER will offer Emirates’ renowned cabin comforts and facilities, including our award-winning ice entertainment system,” Al Ghaith said. - TradeArabia News Service