Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest privately-owned carrier, has firmly debunked reports alleging that the British government blocked its operations into London for seven years.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, the airline described the story as a “deliberate falsehood, crafted with malicious intent to cause disaffection between Air Peace and its hosts, the British people.”
Setting the Record Straight
Contrary to the reports, Air Peace clarified that its Chairman/CEO, Allen Onyema, never accused the British authorities of obstructing the airline’s operations. Instead, Onyema praised the UK aviation authorities for their support, stressing that they have been instrumental in ensuring a seamless entry into the market.
“Preparations are fully underway for our inaugural Abuja–London service on October 26, 2025,” the airline stated, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Air Peace’s International Expansion Journey: A Timeline
Air Peace’s upcoming London service is the latest chapter in an ambitious international expansion strategy that has steadily elevated Nigeria’s presence on the global aviation map:
- 2017 – Johannesburg, South Africa: Air Peace launched flights to Johannesburg, marking its first long-haul African route and signaling its determination to connect Nigeria to key cities across the continent.
- 2019 – Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The airline expanded beyond Africa with the Lagos–Dubai route, catering to the strong demand for business and leisure travel between Nigeria and the Middle East.
- 2023 – Mumbai, India: Air Peace broke new ground in Asia, connecting Lagos to Mumbai, a move celebrated by the Nigerian-Indian community and business leaders.
- 2025 – London, United Kingdom (Upcoming): Scheduled to begin on October 26, the Abuja–London service will be a landmark achievement, granting Nigerian travelers direct, affordable, and competitive access to one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs.
Each milestone underscores Air Peace’s resilience, often achieved in the face of stiff international competition, regulatory hurdles, and misinformation campaigns aimed at undermining its credibility.
A Milestone for Nigerian Aviation
Industry analysts view the London route as a game-changer. For years, Nigerian travelers have relied heavily on foreign carriers for access to the UK. Air Peace’s entry introduces competition that is expected to lower fares, improve service, and enhance Nigeria’s aviation standing.
“The arrival of Air Peace on the London route is not just about competition. It’s about sovereignty in the skies. For too long, Nigerians have depended on foreign carriers. This move rebalances the dynamics,” said an aviation expert who preferred not to be named.
Another expert based in Abuja added:
“With Air Peace entering London, passengers will now have a proudly Nigerian option. It also pressures foreign airlines to rethink pricing and service quality. This is a win for Nigerian travelers.”
Traveler Sentiments: Pride and Relief
For Nigerian passengers, the launch of Air Peace’s Abuja–London flights is more than a commercial development—it is a matter of national pride.
“Whenever I travel to London, I always felt disappointed that no Nigerian airline was available. Seeing Air Peace fly this route makes me proud as a Nigerian,” said a Lagos-based businessman.
A student preparing to study in the UK shared her relief:
“Foreign airlines are often too expensive for students like me. With Air Peace, I believe fares will become more affordable, and we’ll finally have a home airline to rely on.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Air Peace has consistently maintained its commitment to delivering safe, affordable, and world-class services. The airline reaffirmed its pledge to continue strengthening Nigeria’s footprint in international aviation, even as it prepares to launch the Abuja–London service.
By clearing the air on the recent controversy, Air Peace has reinforced its role as a flagbearer of Nigerian resilience, ambition, and innovation in the skies.
Air Peace has dismissed reports of a UK entry ban, confirming strong cooperation with British authorities as it prepares for its inaugural Abuja–London flight on October 26, 2025. Experts and Nigerian travelers hail the development as a boost for national pride and competition in international aviation.
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