Arik Air

Arik Air (ICAO: ARA) is a Nigerian airline that was established in 2004 by Joseph Arumemi-Ikhide, emerging from the liquidation of the former national carrier, Nigeria Airways. The airline commenced operations on October 30, 2006, aiming to introduce new standards in Nigerian aviation.

The airline's primary operational bases are located at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in Abuja, Nigeria. Arik Air's fleet typically includes Boeing 737-700s, Boeing 737-800s, Bombardier CRJ1000s, and De Havilland Dash 8 Q400s. While historically it utilized leased Airbus A330-200s and A340-500s for long-haul routes, its international service has become limited. As of late 2025, the airline operates a fleet of around 14 to 15 active aircraft out of 23.

Arik Air initially offered a wide network spanning domestic, regional, and intercontinental services, including destinations in North America (New York) and Europe (London, Amsterdam, Madrid). However, due to financial restructuring and a takeover by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) in early 2017, most flights outside Africa, including those to Johannesburg, have been gradually suspended. Currently, the airline primarily focuses on domestic routes within Nigeria, serving around 7 to 8 destinations, and limited regional routes within West Africa. Arik Air is not a member of any major global airline alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or Oneworld. The airline offers both Economy Class and Business Class services, with Business Class providing amenities such as larger seats, complimentary meals, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges on select routes. In 2021, a new Premium Class cabin with enhanced legroom and privacy was introduced on some Boeing 737-700 NG aircraft for routes like Lagos-Abuja.