Abuja: Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has announced that Air Peace will commence direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport on October 26.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this development follows sustained diplomatic efforts by the Federal Government to ensure reciprocity in international air travel agreements.
The minister highlighted that this achievement was the result of a firm communication from the ministry, dated August 1, 2024, addressed to the UK Secretary of State for Transport, Rt. Hon. Louise Haigh. In the letter, Keyamo insisted on the immediate allocation of landing slots at Heathrow for Air Peace, warning of reciprocal action that could include reviewing the access of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic to Lagos and Abuja airports.
Keyamo clarified that Nigeria is simply asserting its rights under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two nations, which ensures reciprocal access and fair treatment for designated flag carriers. After months of negotiations and strong diplomatic engagement, the UK authorities granted Air Peace the long-awaited Heathrow slot.
The minister stated that this development is not only a victory for Air Peace but also a significant diplomatic milestone for Nigeria. It underscores the country’s commitment to enforcing the terms of bilateral agreements and protecting the commercial interests of its indigenous carriers.
Aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes creating an enabling environment for Nigerian businesses globally, this move marks a new chapter in Nigeria-UK aviation relations. Keyamo recalled that Air Peace had previously launched its inaugural direct flight from Lagos to London Gatwick Airport in March 2024, marking its entry into the competitive UK aviation market.
With the acquisition of the Heathrow slot, Air Peace is expected to expand its international presence, offering Nigerian travelers greater convenience and connectivity. Keyamo concluded by noting that this development sets a precedent for stronger enforcement of bilateral agreements to benefit national carriers.