Air Peace Secures Historic Access to Heathrow, Gatwick, Thanks to UK Government Backing
Air Peace, Nigeria’s foremost carrier and West Africa’s aviation leader, has described its approval to operate scheduled flights into London Heathrow and London Gatwick as a defining achievement for Nigerian aviation, made possible by the strong support of the United Kingdom Government.
The Chairman of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, announced the development with excitement, noting that it has taken seven years for any Nigerian airline to secure such access.
He said the milestone underscored not only the airline’s determination but also the goodwill of the UK authorities, who extended what he described as unprecedented hospitality.
In particular, Dr Onyema praised the British Deputy High Commissioner to Lagos, Mr Jonny Baxter, for his role in ensuring that the process was seamless. He hailed Baxter as “a diplomat par excellence” whose sense of fairness and commitment ensured that Air Peace got all it needed to launch operations.
“Jonny Baxter embodies the principle of live and let live. He gave us every support needed to commence our UK operations. Because of his efforts and the open-mindedness of the UK authorities, we can proudly say today that Air Peace’s problem is no longer the UK. The UK loves Air Peace, and Air Peace loves the UK in return,” Onyema said.
According to him, the warm reception from the UK Government extended beyond regulatory approvals. He disclosed that Heathrow Airport had already indicated its readiness to celebrate the airline’s entry with a welcome party, a gesture he described as symbolic of the blossoming relationship between the two countries.
“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, and we are profoundly grateful to the UK government, the Civil Aviation Authorities, and the people of the UK for the remarkable hospitality they have extended to Air Peace,” Onyema added.
The Air Peace Chairman emphasised that the achievement represents more than just the success of a single airline, stressing its importance for Nigeria–UK relations. “Both countries have come a long way, and this is how it ought to be, a true partnership of respect and shared progress,” he remarked.
Onyema also pointed out that the commencement of flights from Abuja to both Heathrow and Gatwick would ease travel difficulties for passengers from Northern Nigeria.
He explained that many Abuja-based travellers had long preferred to avoid transiting through Lagos for international trips, and that the new routes would provide direct, convenient options.
He urged Nigerian leaders and citizens alike to support indigenous airlines, saying that such patronage is vital for the nation’s economy. “Our airlines offer competitive fares and seamless service. Supporting them means strengthening Nigeria’s economy and projecting our national pride,” Onyema insisted.
Air Peace’s breakthrough at Heathrow and Gatwick positions it as a true flag bearer for Nigeria, demonstrating both resilience and ambition.
With this new chapter, the airline has not only cemented its place in international aviation but also opened new channels for connectivity, diplomacy, and national pride.
