Established in 2002, Arik Air is a Nigerian Airline having 2 main hubs at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, and NnamdiAzikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The airline operates both on domestic and international routes. In 2008, Arik Air received permission by the US Department of Transportation to fly in the USA. The airline transported 10 million passengers in 2012. Arik Niger, a subsidiary started its operations in 2009 but was shut down in 2010. In 2012, the airline cancelled domestic operations as the aviation officials raided the Lagos office. But the flights resumed services 3 days later.
The fleet
Arik Airlines currently operate 24 airlines in its fleet. The airline has 2 Airbus A330-200 and 1 Airbus A340-500. The Boeing aircraft include 9 Boeing 737-700 and 4 Boeing 737-800. The fleet includes 9 Bombardier aircraft as well. To meet the different requirements and markets served, the fleet includes aircraft from 4 different manufacturers. The airline has 8 seater Hawkers available. Air Airlines placed the order for Boeing 777-300ER which was cancelled in 2011.
Destinations
Arik Air has a strong hold on the domestic markets. It includes Nigeria and other several Western African destinations. The airline also flies to Europe and North America.
Business Class
The Business Class has a secluded booth area which has state of the art flat beds. The passengers can control the lighting and entertainment features using the remote provided. The entertainment system is a 17” wide system which has Nollywood and Hollywood movies. The business class passengers also get access to the bar and lounge facility. Some other things like noise cancellation headphones, wash bags, pajamas, and slippers are provided. The passengers can also enjoy a large wardrobe space to store their luggage.
Onboard Facilities
The airline cuisine contains African and international cuisine in a-la-carte style. The long-haul flights of the economy come with more legroom. The entertainment comes with 10.2 video screen and AVOD system. The drinks and 3-course meal are available in the flight. Complimentary snacks and soft drinks are also served on all flights.
Online booking and Check In
The check-in counters at the airport open 2 hours before the flight departure for domestic flights and for international 4 hours prior. Online check-in is also available 24 hours before the departure. Although, this service is available on selected flights only. You can book your trip online and get other information at Musafir. Since the boarding begins 30-60 minutes before, passengers are requested to approach the gate on time in order to travel.