[Award Alert] U.S. to Africa From 70,000 Points Each Way in Business Class

Updated: March 7, 2025, 3:25pm CST

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Table of Contents

Award Alert — The Details
Best Ways To Book
Final Thoughts

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Finding award flights to Africa is no easy feat, especially if you’re looking to fly in business class. If this trip has been on your radar, now’s the time to jump — there’s decent award availability on United’s nonstop route from Washington, D.C., to Lagos, Nigeria.

Let’s take a look!

Award Alert — The Details

We found good award availability on this route, which features United’s excellent Polaris business class product — here’s a look at the details:

Class: Business
Routes: Washington, D.C. (IAD) to Lagos, Nigeria (LOS)
Dates: March 2025 to February 2026
Rates: From 70,000 miles one-way

The best way to book these flights is with Air Canada Aeroplan points, which can be easily earned through several transferable point programs. Tickets are available starting at just 70,000 points and ~$55 one-way.

Aeroplan Africa award rate — Image Credit: Air Canada

Otherwise, if you have a large balance of United MileagePlus miles, you can book the same tickets from 80,000 miles and $5.60 each way.

United Airlines award calendar — Image Credit: United Airlines

Best Ways To Book

You have several different booking options for these flights, though the method that suits your needs will depend on the flexible point currencies you hold and how firm your plans are.

Air Canada

Using Aeroplan points is your best option, especially thanks to its partnerships with Amex Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One Miles, Bilt Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy, which make it easy to earn enough Aeroplan points to make these redemptions.

All of these points, with the exception of Marriott Bonvoy, transfer at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer at a 3:1 ratio with a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 points you transfer, though note that transfers can take up to 5 days.

Keep in mind that Air Canada charges a $150 cancellation fee for business class award tickets unless you book the higher-priced flexible ticket.

United Airlines

United is another option for this flight and could be your best bet if you’re just booking something speculatively. There are no change or cancellation fees on award tickets, so you can book (and rebook) to your heart’s content.

Unlike Air Canada, United has limited transfer partners. You can either choose to transfer Chase or Bilt points at a 1:1 ratio, or Marriott Bonvoy points at a 3:1 ratio with an extra 10,000 miles for every 60,000 Marriott points you transfer. It takes up to 2 days for transfers to be completed.

Hot Tip:

Check out our guide to recommended websites and apps that offer flight deal alerts so you don’t miss out on the next great travel deal!

Final Thoughts

Even if you’re not interested in exploring Nigeria, this flight is a great opportunity to get into the African continent and then visit another destination.

With widespread availability, you’ll be able to find seats for you (and some of your loved ones) throughout most of the year. If this is something you’re looking to book, do so before these seats get snapped up!