Air Peace Launches Historic Abuja–Heathrow Service, Bolstering Nigeria’s Global Aviation Presence

In a remarkable leap for Nigeria’s aviation industry, Air Peace Limited has officially commenced its historic Abuja–London Heathrow service, marking another proud milestone in the airline’s international expansion.

The celebratory event, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, drew excitement, colour and patriotic pride as dignitaries, airline executives and passengers gathered to witness the airline’s maiden departure to one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs.

The check-in area of the airport was transformed into a festive arena, complete with branded décor, cultural displays and jubilant travellers who received souvenirs and treats to commemorate the landmark occasion.

Among those present were the airline’s Chairman, Dr Allen Onyema; Vice Chairman, Mrs Alice Onyema; members of the Board of Directors including Barr. Emeka Ngige (SAN), Mrs Ekaette Monsuru and Engr. Benedict Adeyileka, as well as the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Dr Obiora Okonkwo.

Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, hailed the launch as a major diplomatic and operational breakthrough for the nation.

He disclosed that securing a Heathrow slot for Air Peace was the result of intensive bilateral air service negotiations, describing it as a testament to Nigeria’s insistence on fairness and reciprocity in international aviation relations.

Keyamo said: “This is not just another route; it is access to the connecting capital of Europe. Nigerian travellers can now enjoy direct connectivity from our capital to one of the most strategic aviation hubs in the world.

The Federal Government remains committed to supporting indigenous carriers and ensuring that our people benefit from the gains of open skies under the bilateral air services agreement.”

Representing the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, congratulated Air Peace on behalf of the Presidency and the Nigerian people.

He commended the airline’s consistency and patriotic spirit, noting that the new route would increase competition, enhance service delivery and bring about more affordable ticket prices for travellers.

“This milestone reflects what can happen when private enterprise aligns with government policy,” Hadejia remarked.

“Air Peace has become a symbol of national pride, and we are confident that this development will contribute significantly to tourism, trade and diplomatic exchange between Nigeria and the United Kingdom,” he added.

Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who represented the 10th National Assembly, said the successful launch of the route embodies the principle that “when government clears the runway, the private sector takes flight.”

He lauded Dr Onyema as a visionary entrepreneur and an inspiration to millions of Nigerians, especially the youth, for his resilience, integrity and business acumen.

In his remarks, Dr Allen Onyema expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and other government stakeholders for their unwavering support.

He described the Heathrow achievement as a victory for local investment and a validation of Nigerian capacity in the global aviation space.

“Air Peace is a Nigerian story built on faith, patriotism and private-sector innovation,” Onyema said. “This Heathrow connection is not just for Air Peace – it is for every Nigerian. It places us on the global map, providing seamless connectivity to London and beyond – the Americas, Europe and the Caribbean. Indigenous aviation must be encouraged, not stifled, because this is how nations grow their flag carriers.”

The Abuja–Heathrow service, which commenced on 26 October 2025, positions Air Peace as the first Nigerian airline to connect the nation’s capital directly to London’s premier airport.

It follows the airline’s successful launch of its Lagos–London Gatwick route in March 2024, which was met with wide acclaim for offering competitive fares and enhanced service quality.

With this new milestone, Air Peace further consolidates its reputation as West and Central Africa’s largest carrier by fleet size and a leading force in promoting regional and international connectivity.

The Abuja–Heathrow route is expected to stimulate tourism, facilitate business exchange, and strengthen Nigeria’s economic ties with the United Kingdom and Europe.

For passengers, the excitement was palpable. Many expressed delight at the convenience of connecting to Heathrow directly from Abuja without transits, while others celebrated the national pride of flying with a home-grown carrier achieving global recognition.

As Air Peace’s first Abuja–Heathrow flight taxied down the runway, adorned in the airline’s signature colours, the moment symbolised more than just a new route – it represented a powerful statement of Nigeria’s readiness to soar higher in the global aviation arena.