Following its successful inaugural flight from Lagos to London on Saturday, March 30, 2024, with 260 passengers on board marking the resumption of flights by an indigenous carrier to London since 2019, Air Peace has been commended by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite.
Both Ministers were onboard the flight which took off from Muhammed International Airport. The airline operated a 274-seat capacity Boeing 777 for the maiden flight.
Speaking, Doris Uzoka-Anite said, “Nigeria has needed a local airline flying directly to the UK for a number of years. Air Peace proudly wears the badge of. Made in Nigeria. It is a symbol of our collective effort to showcase our capabilities to the world. From the skilled hands that maintain the aircraft to the warm smiles of the cabin crew, every aspect of Air Peace reflects the spirit of our nation.
“Let us reflect on the economic impact of this flight. Air Peace’s presence in London is not merely about arrivals and departures; it is about trade, investment, and collaboration. By choosing Air Peace, you choose to invest in Nigeria. You choose to empower local businesses, create jobs, and strengthen our economy. In December 2023, the UK exported £185 million to Nigeria and imported £154 million, resulting in a negative trade balance of £30.8 million. This is a trend we wish to change in Nigeria’s favour and an additional trade route is a major step in the right direction,” she said.
“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.”
Keyamo, on his part pledged that the Federal Government would continue to protect the airline and other Indigenous carriers that harbors hope of operating international service.
He added that the commencement of direct Lagos-London route by Air Peace would relief the pressure on naira, while the demand for foreign exchange by Nigerians and foreign airlines would ease.
A brief ceremony was held before take-off at the Lagos Airport to herald the start of a new dawn in the Nigerian Aviation Sector.
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