Air Peace Launches Historic Abuja-Heathrow Flights - By Daisy BARRO

Air Peace Limited has marked a significant milestone in Nigerian aviation history with the launch of its maiden direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport. The event, held at the check-in counters of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja), was attended by the airline's management team, government officials, and other stakeholders.

Festus Keyamo, Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, highlighted the intensive diplomatic efforts that secured the Heathrow slot, reaffirming the Government's support for indigenous carriers under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA). "The connecting capital of the whole of Europe now lies within reach of Nigerian travellers, reflecting Nigeria's firm stance on reciprocity and fair access," he noted.

Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff, representing the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extended congratulations to Air Peace on behalf of the Government and Nigerians, welcoming the increased competition, improved service, and more accessible pricing to the UK market.

Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, said the milestone embodies the philosophy that when government clears the runway, the private sector takes flight. He saluted airline Chairman Allen Onyema as a role model for entrepreneurship, integrity, and service, noting that this route opens doors for many young Nigerians to dream bigger.

Chairman Allen Onyema thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister, and all stakeholders for their trust and support in enabling a major indigenous operator to claim a global gateway. He emphasized that this achievement is grounded in local investment, private-sector capacity, and a commitment to raising Nigeria's footprint on the global aviation map.

The Abuja-Heathrow operation, effective October 26, 2025, positions Air Peace as the first Nigerian carrier to connect the nation's capital directly to London's premier airport. This launch is expected to enhance global connectivity, economic opportunity, competitive fares, and a stronger domestic carrier ecosystem.

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