Enugu Air Secures Approval for Lagos–London Gatwick Flights, Bookings Open

Enugu Air has received regulatory approval to commence direct flights from Lagos to London Gatwick in December 2026, marking a major step in the state-owned airline’s international expansion.

The airline announced on Wednesday that bookings for the new route are now open through its online booking portal. It described the approval as a significant move towards strengthening air connectivity between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The development comes barely six weeks after Enugu Air operated its maiden international flight to Douala, Cameroon, on September 23, 2026.

According to a statement issued by the airline, the Lagos–London Gatwick service will be operated in partnership with Omni-Blu Aviation (OBA), which has been designated as the operating partner for the route.

“Enugu Air has received approval for its Lagos–London Gatwick route, with Omni-Blu Aviation appointed as the designated operator under a strategic partnership. Bookings are now open, and flights will commence in December 2026,” the statement said.

“The approval marks a major milestone in Enugu Air’s expansion, strengthening connectivity between Nigeria and the United Kingdom and opening new opportunities for passengers and trade.”

The airline attributed the milestone to the aviation agenda of Enugu State Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, saying his administration’s strategic vision is positioning Enugu as an emerging gateway for international connectivity, investment, tourism and economic growth.

Enugu Air was launched in July 2025 with an initial fleet of three Embraer aircraft, comprising the E170 and E190 series, as part of the Mbah administration’s integrated blueprint for a modern, multimodal transport ecosystem. The initiative also aims to position Enugu as a major regional aviation hub in West and Central Africa.

Since its launch, the airline has expanded its fleet and route network, with the latest approval signalling a further push into international operations.

The commencement of the Lagos–London service is expected to broaden travel options for passengers, strengthen business and trade links, and enhance Nigeria’s air connectivity with the United Kingdom.