Air Peace, Nigeria’s national carrier, launched its Lagos-London flight services on Saturday. The airline made the announcement on its official page, expressing joy over this significant accomplishment. “We are thrilled to announce the commencement of our London service, another milestone in our commitment to providing seamless connectivity between cities,” Air Peace shared. Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and Doris Uzoka-Anita, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, graced the event as the airline celebrated its inaugural flight to London. This London trip follows the earlier declaration by the Nigerian flag carrier of starting direct flight operations from Lagos to Gatwick Airport in London. In November 2023, Air Peace obtained a foreign carrier operator permit (FCOP) to operate flights to the United Kingdom. However, challenges with slot allocation at the destination airport postponed the launch of operations on this route. Prior to this, Keyamo had initiated discussions with the UK government to establish direct flights from Lagos to London. The minister also met with NORSE Atlantic Airways’ management, led by CEO Ben Boiling, in London in late January to explore a partnership for the Lagos-London flights. Keyamo remarked that Air Peace’s commencement of direct Lagos-London flights would alleviate pressure on the local currency, the naira, by reducing the demand for foreign exchange both by Nigerians and foreign airlines. He also noted that the start of flight services by the domestic carrier compelled larger airlines on the Lagos-London route to lower their fares. The minister assured of the government’s continued support and protection for the airline and other Nigerian carriers interested in operating international services. Uzoka-Anite praised the airline’s achievement as a testament to innovation, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence. “Nigeria has long needed a local airline offering direct flights to the UK. Air Peace proudly represents ‘Made in Nigeria’,” she highlighted. “It symbolizes our collective effort to showcase our capabilities to the world. Every aspect of Air Peace, from the skilled maintenance crew to the welcoming cabin crew, mirrors the spirit of our nation. Let us consider the economic impact of this flight. Air Peace’s presence in London signifies more than just arrivals and departures; it signifies trade, investment, and collaboration. By choosing Air Peace, you are investing in Nigeria, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and boosting our economy. In December 2023, the UK exported £185 million to Nigeria and imported £154 million, resulting in a negative trade balance of £30.8 million. This is a trend we aim to reverse in Nigeria’s favor, and an additional trade route is a significant step in the right direction.”
- Advertisement -
Must Read
- Advertisement -