Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, has officially begun direct flight services between Abuja and London Heathrow, expanding its international network and strengthening Nigeria’s aviation footprint.
The inaugural flight departed from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Sunday, marking Air Peace’s second direct London route following the successful launch of its Lagos–London service in March 2024.
Allen Onyema, the airline’s chief executive officer, praised the federal government’s support, describing the achievement as “a product of listening to the people’s aspirations.” He commended Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo for policies that have eased the challenges facing local carriers.
“It’s not just about Air Peace,” Onyema said. “Every airline in this country has benefited from this administration’s commitment to supporting indigenous operators. What we’re celebrating today is patriotism and love for our country.”
Festus Keyamo reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s directive to strengthen local airlines to ensure their sustainability. He noted that over 100 Nigerian carriers have collapsed in the last four decades due to harsh operating conditions.
“A healthy economy depends on a strong private sector,” Keyamo said. “Our focus is to give local operators a fair competitive edge and ensure they utilise Nigeria’s reciprocal rights under international air agreements.”
He also highlighted the need for Nigerian airlines to balance the dominance of foreign carriers, many of which have operated in the country for nearly a century.
With Air Peace now flying directly from both Lagos and Abuja to London, industry watchers say the move could mark a new chapter for Nigeria’s aviation industry, boosting national pride and economic competitiveness.
