Leading Nigerian carrier, Air Peace, made history on Saturday, March 30, 2024, with the commencement of its much-anticipated direct Lagos-London flight operations.
During a prelaunch forum organised by the airline in February, the airline had made public its plans to begin direct flight operations to London from March 30.
This was sequel to successfully obtaining the Foreign Carrier Operator Permit and Third Country Operator Permit, which the airline’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, announced in November last year.
Subsequently, the airline is qualified to operate flights to Europe and the United Kingdom.
The airline wrote on X , “London service has commenced and we’re delighted to have achieved yet another feat in our drive to continually provide peaceful connectivity across cities.
“A big thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this launch.”
Present at the inaugural flight to London is the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anita, among others.
The significance of this milestone was highlighted by the presence of the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, OFR, to show support and solidarity for his brother, Barr. Allen Onyema, the visionary behind Air Peace.
In a statement reflecting the spirit of unity and triumph, the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines declared, “Today is our day of victory, our success, our Airpeace inaugural flight to London. London, here I come on board Airpeace. Congratulations to us. To God be the glory.
“The launch of the Lagos-Gatwick route not only enhances connectivity between Nigeria and the United Kingdom but also sets the stage for the Nigerian aviation industry.
“This momentous occasion symbolizes Nigeria’s growing presence in the global aviation arena and signals a promising future for the nation’s aviation industry.
“As Air Peace blazes a trail to Gatwick, London, it paves the way for other Nigerian airlines to follow suit, fostering economic growth, job creation, and international partnerships.
“The success of this inaugural flight is a testament to the vision and determination of Nigerian aviation leaders, propelling the industry towards new heights of excellence and opportunity.
“With Air Peace’s inaugural flight to London, United Nigeria Airlines is next to hit the international routes”.
The business relationship between Chief Allen Onyema of Air Peace and Professor Obiora Okonkwo, OFR, of United Nigeria Airlines has remained the trending topic across platforms, with many expressing admiration for their partnership and support for each other. Both have continued to redefine friendly competition and put into practice the popular Igbo maxim, “Onye aghana Nwanne ya”.
“Congratulations to Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines Is Next.”
