Airline

Nigeria Airways (U3)

Nigeria Airways was the historic national flag carrier of Nigeria, operating from 1958 until 2003. Known for connecting West Africa to the globe via its Lagos hub, its legacy continues through the numerous modern airlines that now serve its historic routes.

Why travelers choose Nigeria Airways

  • Historic national flag carrier of Nigeria (1958-2003)
  • Former hub at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos
  • Iconic 'Flying Elephant' logo and green-and-white livery
  • Pioneered extensive domestic and international routes across Europe, North America, and the Middle East

Fare families

Economy Class

The standard historical cabin class offering reliable service, comfortable seating, and complimentary inflight dining.

  • Standard seat pitch and legroom
  • Complimentary inflight meals and beverages
  • Standard checked baggage allowance
  • Traditional airport counter check-in

Business Class

A premium historical travel experience designed for corporate and leisure travelers seeking extra comfort and priority services.

  • Spacious seating with enhanced recline
  • Priority check-in and boarding
  • Access to premium airport lounges
  • Upgraded inflight dining options
  • Increased baggage allowance

First Class

The highest tier of luxury on historic Nigeria Airways long-haul flights, featuring exclusive amenities and maximum privacy.

  • Maximum privacy with sleeper seats on select historical aircraft
  • Exclusive First Class lounge access
  • Gourmet multi-course dining
  • Dedicated cabin crew and personalized service
  • Maximum priority baggage handling

Key policies

Baggage allowance

Historically, Nigeria Airways provided a standard checked baggage allowance, typically up to 23kg for Economy and two 32kg bags for premium classes. Travelers booking modern alternatives to Nigeria will find similar standard international allowances.

Change policy

As Nigeria Airways ceased operations in 2003, no active bookings or changes can be processed. Modern alternative airlines serving Nigeria offer flexible change policies, which vary by fare type and carrier.

Check-in

Historically, check-in was conducted via traditional airport counters. Passengers flying on today's alternative carriers to Nigeria can take advantage of modern 24-hour online and mobile check-in options.

Search U3 flights

Colombo (CMB) network

Nigeria Airways operating flights touching CMB

Sample operating pattern; confirm exact days and times during booking.

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From Colombo (CMB)

CMB → DXB

Flight U3 203 • Daily

4h 15m
08:55 → 12:10 Nonstop, morning departure

CMB → SIN

Flight U3 468 • Daily

4h 30m
10:45 → 17:45 Nonstop, widebody

CMB → LHR

Flight U3 503 • Mon / Wed / Fri

11h 15m
13:10 → 20:25 1 stop via hub

To Colombo (CMB)

DXB → CMB

Flight U3 204 • Daily

4h 15m
14:20 → 20:35 Nonstop, evening arrival

SIN → CMB

Flight U3 469 • Daily

3h 40m
19:20 → 21:00 Nonstop, premium-heavy

LHR → CMB

Flight U3 504 • Tue / Thu / Sat

10h 45m
21:55 → 12:40+1 1 stop via hub