Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, has offered a candid assessment of the challenges facing Nigeria’s aviation industry, detailing the airline’s ongoing expansion plans and reiterating his dedication to national service. Speaking during a recent media parley in Lagos, Onyema discussed the realities of operating an airline in Nigeria’s complex economic environment while unveiling the carrier’s ambitious roadmap for global connectivity.
He emphasized that despite the financial pressures, Air Peace has continued to fulfill its obligations to passengers while maintaining one of the largest and most efficient fleets in West Africa.
Operating in a Dual-Currency Economy: “It’s Not Easy”
Onyema highlighted the strain of managing daily operations with a fleet of 15 aircraft, noting that while ticket sales are conducted in Naira, nearly all essential aviation components, such as aircraft spare parts, are priced in U.S. dollars.
“Running aviation in Nigeria is no easy task,” Onyema said. “You’re earning in Naira but spending in Dollars. It’s a tough space for any operator to survive, yet we keep going.”
Despite the economic challenges, Air Peace has sustained its flight operations and continues to grow its network both domestically and internationally.
International Expansion: Caribbean, London, India, and China in View
Onyema confirmed that the airline will launch a service rebrand within the next three weeks aimed at enhancing customer experience further disclosed that Caribbean scheduled flight in September, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion. He also announced that the Abuja–London Gatwick route will begin on October 26, offering Nigerian travellers more international access points. Additionally, Air Peace is making preparations to resume flights to India and China, further strengthening its long-haul connectivity.
“These international routes go beyond business. They are strategic moves to represent Nigeria positively on the global stage,” Onyema explained.
Maintenance and Safety Remain Top Priorities
Reiterating the airline’s safety standards, Onyema emphasized that aircraft maintenance is a core focus of the airline’s operations. He stated that no aircraft is cleared for service unless it meets the highest safety requirements.
“I don’t take maintenance lightly. There is no bus stop in the air,” he said. “Once an aircraft takes off, we carry the lives of hundreds. That responsibility can’t be compromised.”
On Flight Delays: “We Don’t Delay Flights to Lose Money”
Addressing recurring concerns over flight delays and cancellations, Onyema appealed to the media to help educate the public on the operational realities of the industry. He stressed that flight disruptions are never intentional.
“No airline delays flights deliberately,” he said. “We are in business to make money. A delayed or cancelled flight means a loss for us. If there are ways to eliminate delays, we are more than willing to implement them.”
Strong Corporate Structure and Financial Discipline
Contrary to public perception, Onyema clarified that Air Peace is not a one-man operation. He noted that the airline has a functional Board of Directors, with decision-making guided by strong corporate governance. He also highlighted the airline’s financial integrity, with annual audits conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
“If our business wasn’t transparent, banks like Fidelity Bank and Zenith Bank would not continue to work with us,” he said.
Commending Government and Industry Partners
Onyema commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing aviation reform and praised the appointment of Festus Keyamo as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, describing him as a “dedicated and pragmatic leader.”
He also applauded FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, for her “human-centred approach” to infrastructure management and development. In addition, he thanked the Dangote Group for its proposed aviation fuel distribution strategy, which could enhance Jet A1 availability and reduce logistical burdens for airlines.
Ready to Serve the Nation
In closing, Onyema reaffirmed Air Peace’s readiness to support the country during times of crisis, referencing the airline’s history of evacuating Nigerians from conflict zones.
“If President Tinubu calls me to evacuate Nigerians from a country in crisis, like Iran, I’ll respond immediately. It is our duty to serve Nigeria whenever the call comes,” Onyema said.
From battling economic headwinds to expanding Nigeria’s international presence, Dr. Allen Onyema’s message was clear: Air Peace remains committed to safety, growth, and national pride. As the airline charts new international routes and rebrands for the future, it stands as a symbol of resilience and ambition in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
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