By Sylvia Johnson · Last updated 3 November 2026 · 10-minute read
Quick answer: There are no nonstop flights from Lagos (LOS) to Malta (MLA). Every ticket connects at least once, commonly in Istanbul, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Doha or Casablanca. A good one-stop itinerary takes roughly 11 to 16 hours, while the cheapest two-stop fares can run past 25 hours. In recent snapshots, one-way fares ranged from about US$400 to US$900. Nigerian passport holders need a Schengen visa for Malta, so sort that out before you buy a ticket.
Lagos to Malta flights at a glance
| Nonstop flights | None |
| Common hubs | Istanbul, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich, Doha, Casablanca, London |
| Typical journey | About 11–16 h on a well-timed one-stop; 25 h+ on many two-stop fares |
| Fares seen | Roughly US$400–$900 one way in sampled searches |
| Visa | Schengen (Type C) visa required for Nigerians |
| Airports | Murtala Muhammed International (LOS) → Malta International (MLA) |
Which airlines connect Lagos to Malta?
| Hub | Example airline | Hub in Schengen? |
|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | Turkish Airlines | No |
| Frankfurt | Lufthansa | Yes |
| Paris | Air France | Yes |
| Amsterdam | KLM | Yes |
| Zurich | Swiss | Yes |
| Doha | Qatar Airways | No |
| Casablanca | Royal Air Maroc | No |
| London | British Airways | No |
Turkish Airlines is a popular choice because it flies Lagos to Istanbul and Istanbul to Malta on regular schedules. Check its Lagos–Malta page. Swiss also publishes a Lagos–Malta page. Airlines, hubs and prices change by date, so confirm every leg and the operating carrier before you pay.
How much do cheap flights from Lagos to Malta cost?
There’s no fixed fare. Recent snapshots (not live quotes):
- Budget two-stop fares: around US$400–$500 one way in sampled searches, but with journeys of 25 to 42 hours.
- Mainstream one-stop fares: often in the US$600–$900 range, with shorter journeys.
The cheapest fare isn’t always the best value. A 40-hour trip with two tight connections can cost you a hotel night and a missed connection. Compare the full checkout total, including checked bags, seat selection, payment fees and your airport transfer. For fares from Nigeria in general, see our Cheap Flights From Lagos guide and this week’s real fares from Lagos.
10 ways to pay less without booking a bad trip
- Decide what you need first. One cabin bag and fixed dates suit a restricted fare. A long stay with two bags usually suits a fare that includes baggage.
- Compare more than one platform, then check the airline. Prices differ between sites, so confirm the best option on the airline’s own page.
- Search flexible dates. Check the days either side of your preferred date, since fares move with demand.
- Judge total journey time, not just price. A small saving rarely justifies a 20-hour layover.
- Prefer one ticket for the whole trip. On a single ticket the airline rebooks you if a flight is late. On separate tickets, you carry that risk.
- Check layover lengths. Allow a sensible buffer for the airport’s minimum connection time.
- Price baggage on every leg. Allowances can differ between partner airlines on the same trip.
- Read the fare conditions. Know the change fee and refund rules, especially if your visa timing is uncertain.
- Use fare alerts to track prices. They report changes, not future fares.
- Count Lagos airport costs. A traffic-delayed ride can cost more than a fare difference.
Visa: what Nigerians need for Malta
Malta requires a Schengen visa from Nigerian citizens. The key official points, from the Malta missions visa FAQ:
- Fee: €90 for adults. Service centres may add their own fees.
- When to apply: no earlier than 6 months and no later than 15 calendar days before travel.
- Processing: 15 days as standard, extendable to 45.
- Passport: it must expire at least 3 months after your return from the Schengen area.
- Where to apply: at the Maltese diplomatic mission in your country of residence. Where Malta has no mission, applications go to the mission of a country with a representation agreement. Check which office and visa centre handle Malta applications for Nigeria before you book an appointment.
- Documents: commonly the application form, photos, proof of funds, accommodation, itinerary and travel medical insurance. Schengen applications generally require insurance with minimum coverage, so check the current amount with the consulate.
Malta International Airport also publishes general visa guidance. Because approval and timing aren’t guaranteed, consider a flexible or refundable fare until your visa is issued.
Transit stops: a Schengen visa for Malta generally covers a connection through another Schengen airport such as Frankfurt, Paris or Amsterdam. Non-Schengen hubs (Istanbul, Doha, Casablanca, London) have their own transit rules. Check them with your airline and Timatic via TravelDoc before you book.
Leaving Lagos
Arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport at least three hours before an international departure, and earlier in peak traffic. Confirm your terminal with your airline. Our Lagos Airport Guide covers terminals and transfers, and the Lagos Transportation Guide covers getting there. If you need a night nearby, see Top Hotels in Ikeja and Where to Stay in Lagos.
Flying through Europe or the Gulf? Our guides to flights from Lagos to Paris, flights from Lagos to the United Kingdom and Lagos to Dubai flights cover hub airlines you may see on your Malta search. Browse every route in our Flights From Lagos guide, or use the Lagos Travel Planning Tools.
Protect your trip
- Use the airline’s website, app or a staffed office, and never send money to a personal account.
- Be suspicious of fares far below every other offer.
- Check that the name on your booking matches your passport exactly.
- Buy travel insurance that covers medical costs, delays, cancellations and baggage. A visa application usually needs medical cover anyway. Read the exclusions and check what your card or employer already provides.
Frequently asked questions
Are there direct flights from Lagos to Malta?
No. Every itinerary has at least one connection. Check current options with the airline before booking.
How long is the journey?
Roughly 11 to 16 hours on a well-timed one-stop trip. The cheapest two-stop fares can take 25 hours or more.
How much is a ticket?
Recent one-way snapshots ranged from about US$400 to US$900. Only the live price at checkout counts.
Which airlines fly Lagos to Malta?
None nonstop. Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, Swiss, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc and British Airways all appear on connecting itineraries.
Do Nigerians need a visa for Malta?
Yes, a Schengen visa. Malta’s official page lists a €90 adult fee and 15 to 45 days processing.
When should I apply for the visa?
No earlier than 6 months and no later than 15 days before travel. Apply early because appointments and processing take time.
Do I need a transit visa?
It depends on your hub and passport. A Schengen visa generally covers other Schengen hubs. Check non-Schengen hubs separately.
How early should I get to Lagos airport?
At least three hours before an international departure.
Your next step
Start with the visa timeline, not the fare. Then compare one-stop itineraries on a single ticket for your exact dates, price the full total with bags, and book through the airline. Leave a generous buffer for Lagos traffic and your connection.
Fares and rules were checked on 3 November 2026 and can change. Verify with the airline and Malta’s official visa sources before you travel.
