A major aviation partnership has been sealed as United Nigeria Airlines has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau to establish a new national airline, Air Bissau.
The agreement, signed in Bissau, marks the beginning of a joint initiative aimed at strengthening the West African nation’s air connectivity and positioning it for improved regional and international access.
The MoU was signed on behalf of the Government of Guinea-Bissau by Florentino Mendes Pereira, while United Nigeria Airlines was represented by its leadership team led by Obiora Okonkwo.
Under the arrangement, both parties will develop a joint venture to operate Air Bissau, with Osvaldo Vieira International Airport designated as its operational hub.
United Nigeria Airlines is expected to provide aircraft, technical expertise, investment, and operational management support for the proposed national carrier. The airline will also oversee executive jet operations for the government of Guinea-Bissau.
In return, the West African government will facilitate regulatory approvals, licensing processes, and designate Air Bissau as the country’s official flag carrier, granting it access to Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) routes across the region and beyond.
The agreement also includes plans to upgrade aviation infrastructure at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport, including improvements to ground handling, customs, immigration, and security services.
Guinea-Bissau further pledged investment incentives to support the airline’s long-term viability, while committing to workforce development through training programmes for local pilots, cabin crew, and engineers.
United Nigeria Airlines will handle operational management of the airline to ensure compliance with international aviation safety standards, while also prioritising the employment of Guinean nationals.
The MoU is expected to remain in effect for 18 months or until a full joint venture agreement is concluded, with both parties describing the initiative as a strategic step toward transforming aviation in Guinea-Bissau.
