Seunfunmi Joshua
Air Peace, the largest airline in Nigeria and West Africa, established in 2013, has officially launched direct flights between Lagos and London. The inaugural flight departed from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (New Terminal) in Lagos on Saturday, March 30th, 2024, carrying 260 passengers.
In a statement on the airline’s official X handle, it was announced, “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.”
The inaugural London flight was attended by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anita, among others.
Before Air Peace, other local airlines like Virgin Nigeria and Arik Air operated flights to London, but with varying success. Virgin Nigeria started in 2005 but ceased operations in four years. Arik Air began in 2008 but faced financial challenges and stopped its London services.
Here’s what we know about the start of the Lagos to London flights and why it’s sparking enthusiasm among Nigerians in Nigeria and abroad.
A Feat That Took 7 Years According To CEO Allen Onyema
In a recent interview with Allen Onyema, Chairman/CEO of Air Peace, on Arise TV, he mentioned that it took the airline seven years to begin its Lagos to London route after initially receiving the designation six and a half years ago. He attributed the delay to internal and external conspiracies. Air Peace had acquired three Boeing 777 aircraft for the London route, but faced challenges in making it operational.
However, despite the hurdles and challenges, they finally achieved their goal seven years later.
Direct Connectivity, No More Layovers
This new route restores a direct air link between Lagos and London after a period of absence, providing passengers with a more convenient travel option that eliminates the need for layovers or connecting flights.
Reduced Flight Ticket Prices
This new development means that travelers, especially locals, can now enjoy lower prices on flight tickets to London and back. Other airlines have quickly followed suit, with a reduction in ticket prices since the announcement was made.
This has brought smiles to the faces of Nigerians, with many mentioning it on social media.
Travellers Can Now Enjoy Local Dishes
If you’re Nigerian and have a strong love for local dishes, Air Peace has you covered. Based on the ongoing conversations and feedback, it’s been confirmed that travelers, particularly locals, will have the opportunity to savor local dishes during their flight.
A Huge Boost To Nigeria’s Economy
The direct flights are expected to benefit the Nigerian economy by boosting tourism and trade opportunities between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Final Thoughts
This is a significant achievement for Nigerian aviation, bringing back direct flights to London after a break of several years. Passengers can now enjoy a more convenient trip without layovers.
According to Allen Onyema, CEO of Air Peace, who expressed his joy at this achievement, highlighting the airline’s dedication to providing smooth connections between cities, this new route is anticipated to not only benefit passengers but also boost the Nigerian economy by improving tourism and trade prospects.
We’re excited about this and look forward to more milestones ahead. Cheers to the new achievement!
For more contents like this, check out our website www.lists.ng and and follow us across all social media platforms @listsng
