Air Peace has credited the United Kingdom government for its approval to operate scheduled flights from Nigeria into London Heathrow and Gatwick Airports.
The Chairman of the airline, Dr. Allen Onyema, in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos, described the development as a landmark achievement, noting that no Nigerian carrier had secured such access in the past seven years.
Onyema praised the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, for his role in facilitating the process, describing him as “a diplomat par excellence” whose fairness and commitment helped the airline meet all requirements to launch its UK operations.
“It was due to his efforts and the open-mindedness of the UK authorities that 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.
He revealed that the UK government invited Air Peace to commence Heathrow flights and that the airport was planning a welcome reception for the airline’s inaugural service.
Onyema explained that flights from Abuja to both Heathrow and Gatwick were designed to ease travel for passengers from northern Nigeria. He urged Abuja travellers to take advantage of the new routes and appealed to Nigerian public officials to demonstrate patriotism by supporting local airlines.
“Our airlines offer competitive fares and seamless service. Supporting them means strengthening Nigeria’s economy and projecting our national pride,” he added.
