Delta Flight from USA to Lagos Arrives Nearly Empty, Sparking Travel Concerns
A recent Delta Airlines flight from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Lagos, Nigeria, arrived with a notably low number of passengers, raising concerns among travel stakeholders. A viral video taken by a passenger on the flight revealed rows of empty seats, highlighting a sharp decline in travel demand on the route.
This drop in traffic comes shortly after Delta Airlines announced its expansion of the New York–Lagos route, offering daily nonstop service starting in December 2024 and running through February 2024. The airline also upgraded its aircraft from the Airbus A330-200 (223 seats) to the larger Airbus A330-900neo (281 seats).
Possible Causes: Visa Restrictions and Immigration Anxiety
Industry experts have pointed to lingering fears surrounding U.S. visa policies as a major factor behind the decline. Many travelers remain wary of applying for American visas due to what they describe as arbitrary denials and increasing immigration scrutiny.
“The visa issue has persisted for over a year. People are losing trust,” one frequent traveler said. “Trump-era policies have created long-lasting anxiety. Some people say they’ll never visit the U.S. Embassy again.”
There have also been reports of increased border turnbacks and harassment, further discouraging prospective passengers from booking flights to the United States.
Airlines to Europe Slash Prices Amid Low Travel Season
Meanwhile, several international airlines operating out of Nigeria, especially to European destinations, have introduced price cuts and special promotions to attract more passengers during the traditionally low travel season from February to May.
British Airways recently offered premium economy tickets to London for just $300, compared to previous prices of over $1,000. Other carriers have reduced the cost of economy class return tickets from Lagos to Europe by 15% to 25%, with fares now ranging from ₦2 million to ₦3 million as of summer 2024.
The trend highlights the broader shift in travel behavior as airlines respond to fluctuating demand and ongoing global uncertainties.
