Nigerians planning international trips can now secure their flight tickets without paying the full cost upfront, following a new financing partnership between First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and 247 Travels.

The two companies have launched the ‘Book Now, Fly Later’ programme, which allows eligible customers to borrow up to ₦10 million for international flight tickets and repay the loan over a period of three to nine months.

The initiative, launched on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, is designed to help Nigerians spread the cost of travel for business, education, healthcare, tourism and family commitments.

Powered by FCMB Premium Banking, the facility is exclusively available for airline tickets purchased through 247 Travels.

Salaried and self-employed FCMB customers who meet the bank’s requirements can apply, with successful applicants expected to receive approval and disbursement within 24 working hours.

The partnership combines FCMB’s lending capacity with 247 Travels’ booking services to provide customers with a flexible payment option as demand for instalment-based financing continues to grow globally.

“At FCMB, we believe banking should empower people to pursue their goals without unnecessary financial strain,” FCMB Managing Director, Yemisi Edun, said.

“Our Book Now, Fly Later solution makes travel more accessible and affordable while giving customers flexibility to manage their finances responsibly,” Edun stated.

She said the initiative was in line with the bank’s broader strategy of promoting inclusive growth through innovation and partnerships.

“We will continue to develop products and partnerships that simplify financial decisions and create value for our customers,” Edun added.

The Managing Director of 247 Travels, Tunji Adeyemi, said the programme was designed to address the challenge faced by travellers who struggle with paying the full cost of flight tickets upfront.

“Travellers increasingly want flexibility and convenience,” Adeyemi said. “Our partnership with FCMB enables customers to secure flights and spread payments over time.”

Opeyemi Makinwa, FCMB’s Group Head of Premium Banking, said the product reflected the bank’s focus on lifestyle offerings through strategic partnerships.

“Customers expect financial services that fit naturally into their lives,” Makinwa said. “Book Now, Fly Later provides greater flexibility and financial control.”

Customers can apply through FCMB’s Book Now, Fly Later platform or the 247 Travels website by selecting their preferred flight and completing a financing request.

Once the application is approved, the loan is disbursed and the ticket is issued through 247 Travels.