Air Peace Credits UK Government Partnership for Historic Access to Heathrow and Gatwick

 Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace, has attributed the airline’s landmark approval to operate direct flights from Nigeria to both London Heathrow and London Gatwick airports to a collaborative partnership with the United Kingdom government. This achievement ends a seven-year period without scheduled Nigerian carrier services to these key UK hubs.

Onyema specifically commended the British Deputy High Commissioner for Lagos, Jonny Baxter, for his instrumental role, describing him as “a diplomat par excellence” whose unwavering support ensured a seamless process. “He gave us every support needed to commence our UK operations. The UK loves Air Peace, and Air Peace loves the UK in return,” Onyema stated.

The chairman revealed that the invitation to operate into Heathrow was accompanied by a significant gesture of welcome, with the airport planning a ceremony to celebrate the airline’s launch. “The UK government even requested that we forward names of those attending so they could make the necessary arrangements. This shows the extent to which they have welcomed us,” Onyema noted, expressing gratitude to UK authorities.

Onyema positioned the milestone as a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, calling it “a true partnership of respect and shared progress.”

Operationally, the new direct flights from Abuja to both Gatwick and Heathrow are designed to cater to travelers in Northern Nigeria, eliminating the need to connect through Lagos. Onyema called on government officials and the public to demonstrate patriotism by supporting the carrier. “Our airlines offer competitive fares and seamless service. Supporting them means strengthening Nigeria’s economy and projecting our national pride,” he concluded.

The new routes reinforce Air Peace’s position as Nigeria’s leading carrier, enhancing connectivity and offering a Nigerian hospitality experience on one of the most prominent international corridors.