Air Peace Makes History: Launches Direct Abuja–London Heathrow Flight
It’s a new dawn for Nigerian aviation — and a proud moment for the nation.
On Sunday, October 26, 2025, Air Peace Limited officially launched its historic direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport, marking a monumental milestone in Nigeria’s quest for global aviation prominence.
The inaugural flight took off from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, amid cheers, cameras, and patriotic celebration, symbolizing Nigeria’s growing confidence on the international aviation stage.
Leading the maiden flight was the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, who joined distinguished passengers, business leaders, and government officials onboard — proudly waving the Nigerian flag high.
A New Chapter for Nigerian Aviation
According to a statement signed by Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, the flight’s departure represents more than a travel milestone — it’s a declaration of national capacity, competitiveness, and sovereignty.
“This is a major step forward for Nigeria’s aviation industry,” the statement said.
“The flight marks a defining moment in our efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s presence in global air transport through fair reciprocity and local empowerment.”
The Abuja–London Heathrow route fulfills a long-standing aspiration under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, securing long-denied air-service reciprocity for Nigerian airlines.
Through Keyamo’s relentless diplomacy and presidential backing, Nigeria has now secured the coveted Heathrow landing slot — a victory that places Air Peace on equal footing with long-established global carriers.
Air Peace Chairman Applauds Government’s Bold Support
At the airport, Air Peace Chairman, Mr. Allen Onyema, was visibly emotional as he praised the federal government’s proactive reforms and decisive support for indigenous operators.
“This is not just about Air Peace — it’s about Nigeria,” Onyema declared.
“The government listened to us. When airlines faced unfair import charges, Minister Keyamo intervened within days. When helicopter operators cried out about excessive fees, he acted immediately. That is leadership.”
Onyema commended the Tinubu administration’s responsiveness, noting that the removal of the 4% Free on Board (FOB) import charge and other bottlenecks had eased pressure on the sector and allowed local airlines to compete on fairer terms.
“This flight to Heathrow is proof that Nigerian airlines can rise to the global stage when given a level playing field,” Onyema added.
“We are flying the Nigerian flag proudly across international skies.”
Keyamo: “Today, the Narrative Changes”
In his remarks, Minister Festus Keyamo hailed the launch as a fulfillment of President Bola Tinubu’s clear mandate to empower Nigerian carriers and ensure their sustainability.
“For over 40 years, more than 100 Nigerian airlines came and went — Concord, Belview, Chanchangi, Sosoliso, and many others,” Keyamo recalled.
“Our goal was clear: to support the survival and global competitiveness of Nigerian airlines. Today, that vision takes flight.”
He emphasised that the government has made historic progress in correcting long-standing imbalances that favoured foreign carriers for decades.
“International airlines have flown into Nigeria for nearly 90 years, lifting our passengers without our own carriers fully participating,” Keyamo said.
“Under the new arrangement, Nigeria now claims its rightful seat in global aviation. No more second place. Today, that changes.”
Strengthening Connectivity, Building Pride
The direct Abuja–London flight is more than a commercial victory — it is a statement of national pride and global ambition.
It enhances connectivity for Nigerians in the North and central regions, reduces travel costs, and supports the nation’s broader aviation infrastructure and tourism goals.
Keyamo noted that this achievement reflects Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda, driven by partnership, private sector growth, and international reciprocity.
“If you destroy the private sector, you destroy your country,” he said.
“Every great economy is built on the strength of its entrepreneurs. The private sector is the engine of growth — and Air Peace is proving that once again.”
BRANDECONOMY INSIGHT: From Local Champion to Global Player
Air Peace’s entry into the London Heathrow route cements its status as West Africa’s most ambitious airline, now connecting Lagos and Abuja to major global destinations including Dubai, Johannesburg, Jeddah, and now London.
The move also repositions Nigeria as a credible aviation hub, capable of producing world-class operators who can compete with established international giants on merit, efficiency, and patriotism.
This development is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and diaspora engagement, while further stimulating foreign exchange inflows and national image building.
“This flight is not just about movement — it’s about momentum,” said BRANDECONOMY’s Aviation Analyst.
“It signals that Nigeria can dream big, act bold, and compete confidently on the global stage.”
A Sky Full of Promise
As the Air Peace Boeing 777 ascended into the morning sky from Abuja — engines roaring, flags waving, and hearts swelling with pride — the message was unmistakable:
Nigeria has taken flight again.
This isn’t just a new route — it’s a new era for Nigerian aviation.
From Lagos to London, Abuja to Heathrow, the nation’s wings are spreading wider — powered by vision, resilience, and renewed hope.
