Sade Williams/Business a.m.
A scorecard of achievements was recently opened by Air Peace, the Nigerian registered international airline, on the occasion of its first full year of servicing what is one of the country’s most lucrative international air travel routes, Lagos-London-Lagos, long coveted by international operators such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic Airways in direct operations, with others tapping into the business by flight connections from Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, among others.
Playing a leading role in Africa air travel, Air Peace has been setting the pace in revolutionising aviation business in Africa. Arguably Nigeria’s leading airline, and West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, it proudly marked its first full year on the Lagos-London route, reflecting on a year of exceptional service, strategic partnerships, and significant contributions to the Nigerian aviation industry.
The milestone not only marked the airline’s expansion into the European market but also signified a monumental achievement for Nigerian aviation.
One year later, Air Peace’s London service has become a symbol of excellence, offering competitive fares, top-tier service, and a bespoke travel experience aboard its luxurious Boeing 777 aircraft. Since its inaugural flight on March 30, 2024, the airline has successfully operated over 662 flights on the Lagos-London route, transporting more than 136,661 passengers.
Specifically, this achievement underscores Air Peace’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s international aviation footprint while delivering unparalleled service to passengers.
Throughout the past year, the airline has implemented a series of customer-centric initiatives to enhance the travel experience. These include:
• Generous luggage allowances – Ensuring passengers enjoy convenient and stress-free travel with ample baggage capacity.
• Streamlined airport transfers – Facilitating seamless connections and reduced transit times for travellers.
• Exclusive limousine pickups – Partnering with SIMPLAA UK to provide premium limousine services, including a 10% discount on Gatwick Airport transfers.
• Student travel discounts – Offering a 15% discount on economy-class tickets for students travelling between Nigeria and London.
• Premium passenger rewards – Collaborating with top brands like Samsung to provide passengers with exclusive perks, including the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2.
Speaking on the milestone, Allen Onyema, chairman and CEO, Air Peace Limited, expressed pride in the airline’s achievements over the past year.
“The launch of our Lagos-London route was a historic moment for Air Peace and Nigerian aviation. One year later, we have not only sustained operations but also thrived, delivering top-tier service, expanding passenger benefits, and contributing to the Nigerian economy. This success reaffirms our vision of making international travel more accessible and affordable for Nigerians.”
While stressing the need for national support, Onyema stated that sustaining the London service requires the backing of Nigerians.
This sentiment encapsulates the airline’s mission: to elevate Nigerian aviation on the world stage and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic and cultural diplomacy.
A statement by Ejike Ndiulo, head, corporate communications for the airline, noted that Air Peace’s presence on the Lagos-London route has had a positive impact on Nigeria’s economy and aviation sector.
By increasing connectivity between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, he said the airline has:
• Created jobs within the aviation industry and related sectors.
• Boosted tourism and business travel, supporting economic growth.
• Strengthened Nigeria’s position in international air travel, reducing reliance on foreign carriers.
• Encouraged healthy competition in the aviation market, leading to better fares and improved services for travellers.
The airline said it remains committed to expanding its global reach and further strengthening Nigeria’s presence in the international aviation landscape, adding that plans for additional long-haul routes and service enhancements are underway as it continues to set new standards in African aviation.
The airline added that in celebrating this milestone, it extends gratitude to passengers, partners, and stakeholders for their unwavering support, noting that travellers can look forward to even greater experiences as the airline continues to innovate and elevate air travel in Nigeria and beyond.
