The Government of Guinea Bissau has signed s Memorandum of Understanding (Mou) with United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) , a fast – growing Nigerian carrier that features expanding regional and international routes, a diverse fleet featuring Boeing and Airbus aircraft, and unique in - flight promotion, operating scheduled flights designed to “Fly to Unite” across West Africa, to establish Air Bissau, a new national carrier for the country.
The agreement was signed in Bissau by Guinea Bissau’s Transport Minister, Dr Florentino Mendes Pereira and United Nigeria Airlines Chairman Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, marking the beginning of what both parties have described as a pivotal partnership that would improve Guinea - Bissau’s connectivity with the rest of the African continent and the world.
The Memorandum of Understanding (Mou) takes immediate effects and remains valid for 13 months, or until a final joint venture agreement is concluded.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Guinea – Bissau Government will designate Air Bissau as the country’s official national carrier, granting it rights under existing Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASAs) to strengthen its access to regional and international routes.
United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) will oversee management and operational control, while also committing to training Guinean nationals as pilots, cabin crew and maintenance audits, full liability and hull insurance coverage, as well as asset promotion mechanisms to safeguard UNA’s investment against regulatory uncertainty, signalling a structured and commercially focused approach to improving connectivity across West Africa.
Air Bissau will be based at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport and its launch aims to end the country’s multi - decade reliance on foreign operators.
Core Features and Agreement Details:
• Strategic Backing: United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) is providing the majority of the financial ivestment, aircraft management, and operational expertise.
• Network and Routes: The airline will operate from Bissau, connecting the country to regional African hubs and international markets. It will serve existing Bilateral Air Service (BASAs) entitlements previously limited by foreign carriers.
• Government Transport: The agreement includes provisions for the airline to supply and operate an executive jet specifically for the President and Government of Guinea - Bissau.
• Local Workforce and Training: United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) has committed to training Guinean nationals as pilots, cabin crew, and technical personnel.
Safety and Operations:
• Insurance and Audits: Operations are backed by full liability and hull insurance coverage, alongside independent annual safety and maintenance audits.
• Infrastructure Support: The Government of Guinea - Bissau is streamlining licensing processes through its Civil Aviation Authority and providing support for ground services, security, and immigration.
• Investment Protection: The joint venture includes measures to protect agsinst regulatory uncertainties and adverse policy changes.
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