…..as an airline Return to London Route Sparks Hope and Excitement
Air Peace’s triumphant maiden voyage from Lagos to London on March 30, 2024, received accolades from Nigerians, marking a significant milestone in the country’s aviation sector.
With 260 passengers aboard, the indigenous carrier’s return to service on this lucrative route since 2019 garnered praise and excitement.
Operating a Boeing 777 with a capacity of 274 seats, Air Peace held a brief ceremony at Muhammed International Airport (New Terminal) to commemorate the occasion.
Dignitaries including Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Doris Uzoka-Anite, and other esteemed guests graced the event.
Passengers aboard the historic flight expressed relief and optimism, heralding a new era in Nigerian air travel.
They lauded Air Peace’s efforts in reshaping the narrative with fairer fares and emphasized the importance of supporting indigenous ventures like Air Peace.
“It’s a new dawn for travellers. We are tired of exploitative fares charged by foreign carriers. Air Peace is changing the narrative to air travel with this maiden flight. We see that fares are gradually reducing since Air Peace announced flight to London. This is good for air travel and Nigeria”.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Mr Festus Keyamo, buoyed by the success, pledged ongoing government support to safeguard Air Peace and other Nigerian carriers venturing into international service.
He highlighted the route’s potential to alleviate pressure on the national currency and reduce foreign exchange demand.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite hailed Air Peace’s achievement as a testament to Nigerian innovation and excellence.
She underscored the flight’s economic significance, urging patronage of local businesses and investments to strengthen the nation’s economy.
Emphasizing safety and confidence in Air Peace, she urged passengers to trust in the airline’s impeccable safety record and its commitment to upholding stringent safety standards.
“So I entreat all potential passengers to trust them to carry you safely across continents, and remember that you are part of a movement—a movement that encourages Nigerians to patronize their own. Let us be ambassadors in the skies, sharing stories of our rich heritage, our vibrant culture, and the warmth that defines us,”
Similarly, Capt. Chris Najomo, Acting Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA,stressed the importance of governmental support through initiatives like the Fly Nigeria Act to bolster indigenous airlines’ success on international routes.
He assured continued regulatory support to ensure Air Peace and others flourish in the global aviation landscape.
