Air Peace Limited has officially commenced direct flight operations from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to London’s Heathrow Airport, marking a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s aviation history.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, it was confirmed that the first flight departed on Sunday morning, October 26, 2025.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, led the inaugural flight, accompanied by distinguished passengers and officials.
According to the statement, the successful take-off and landing signify the realization of Nigeria’s right to reciprocity under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
“You will recall that the Minister has been at the forefront of securing the explicit reciprocity of air-service rights under the BASA between both countries,” the statement read.
Okay News reports that Keyamo had earlier written to the UK Secretary of State for Transport, Louise Haigh, insisting that a Nigerian airline be granted landing rights at Heathrow Airport and Gatwick.
At the departure ceremony, Air Peace Chairman, Mr. Allen Onyema, expressed gratitude to the Tinubu administration for supporting local airlines, commending the Minister for resolving long-standing industry challenges.
“I remember when Customs introduced a four percent FOB charge for our imports; the Minister intervened immediately, took the matter to the Finance Ministry and Customs, and within one week, the charge was removed,” Onyema said. “This government listens to the people’s complaints and acts swiftly to make the industry more viable.”
In his remarks, Keyamo emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s directive was clear — to support Nigerian airlines and promote their competitiveness globally.
“For over 40 years, more than 100 local airlines have come and gone. We were mandated to ensure that Nigerian carriers not only survive but also compete on equal grounds internationally,” the Minister stated.
He added that the new route represents a renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure and empowering private sector players.
“The Abuja–London Heathrow route underscores our determination to give Nigerian airlines global presence and fair access under international agreements,” Keyamo said.
The flight is expected to enhance travel convenience for Nigerians, reduce reliance on foreign carriers, and stimulate economic growth through improved connectivity.
