Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest private airline, is set to launch direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow beginning 26 October, following clearance from UK authorities. The move marks a major boost for Nigeria’s aviation industry and is part of the airline’s growing international expansion.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, the airline’s chairman, Dr Allen Onyema, said the Heathrow route approval highlights the global confidence in Air Peace’s operational standards and reliability.
“Securing this slot is a vote of confidence in our commitment to safety and service,” said Onyema. “This is more than an achievement for Air Peace — it’s a proud moment for Nigeria.”
In addition to the new Abuja–Heathrow service, which will operate four times weekly, the airline runs thrice-daily flights between Lagos and London Gatwick. Further expansion is underway, with direct flights to the Caribbean — starting with Antigua in September, and Barbados soon after.
Onyema also revealed that Congo, Gabon, and Brazzaville will be added to the airline’s network before the end of the year.
To support this rapid growth, the airline is increasing its fleet capacity with new wide-body aircraft, including more Boeing 777s, acquired through dry lease financing. Air Peace currently owns 36 aircraft outright and operates four more under wet lease, with additional planes expected imminently.
Highlighting operational performance, Onyema said the airline had achieved over 85% on-time departure rates since May and was investing in customer service upgrades.
Addressing the issue of delays, he stated that most disruptions were not within the airline’s control. “Weather, infrastructure limitations, bird strikes — these are the primary culprits,” he explained. “In just this year alone, we’ve experienced over 30 bird strikes.”
Onyema also announced the impending resumption of the China route, alongside other regional and international connections.
He lauded the Federal Government, particularly President Bola Tinubu and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, for driving regulatory reforms and supporting indigenous operators.
“With the continued backing of Nigerians and an improved policy environment, Air Peace is positioned to become a formidable force in global aviation,” Onyema said.
