Air Peace to Launch London Flights from Gateway Airport This Summer
Air Peace has officially announced its plans to commence international flight operations from the newly commissioned Gateway International Airport in Ogun State to London this summer. The airline's Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, made this significant revelation during an interview with journalists following a comprehensive inspection of the airport's state-of-the-art facilities alongside Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.
This development comes on the heels of the airport's official commissioning by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a transformative moment for the region's aviation landscape. According to Onyema, Air Peace will operate direct flights connecting Gateway International Airport to both London Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport, establishing a crucial international link for the state.
World-Class Infrastructure and Strategic Operations
Onyema praised the Ogun State government for delivering what he described as a world-class aviation facility, noting that the airport ranks among the best-equipped in Sub-Saharan Africa. He emphasized that the infrastructure meets rigorous global standards, specifically highlighting the impressive four-kilometre runway, which is capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Airbus A380.
For the London route, Air Peace plans to deploy its Boeing 777 fleet, ensuring capacity and comfort for passengers. Onyema also confirmed that he has received formal approval from the Minister of Aviation to proceed with the operations, characterizing the project as a national asset rather than merely a state initiative, underscoring its broader economic importance.
Expansion Plans and Economic Projections
In his remarks, Governor Abiodun unveiled ambitious plans to further expand the airport's ecosystem, including the construction of an international conference and convention centre alongside a 550-room five-star hotel. These developments are expected to position Ogun State as a premier hub for global business and tourism, attracting international visitors and investors.
The governor disclosed that cargo operations have already commenced with Allied Air, and Ethiopian Airlines is anticipated to begin operations soon. Additionally, another European carrier is set to launch cargo services into the state. Abiodun projected that approximately 50 cargo flights will operate through the airport between April and the end of the year, boosting trade and logistics.
Further enhancing connectivity, Abiodun revealed the establishment of Gateway Airlines, which has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft. These 90-seater planes are expected to improve air links between Ogun State, Abuja, and other major Nigerian cities, facilitating domestic travel and economic integration.
Political Endorsements and Future Prospects
Governor Abiodun expressed strong confidence that Gateway International Airport could soon become Nigeria's third busiest aviation hub, following Lagos and Abuja, driven by its strategic location and modern facilities.
During the airport's inauguration, President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Abiodun for his transformative efforts in Ogun State. They lauded the governor for changing the face of aviation through the Gateway International Airport and other landmark projects, including road and housing developments.
Tinubu thanked Abiodun for his strides in office, stating that the governor had justified the confidence placed in him by the people. Obasanjo described the occasion as a pivotal moment in Ogun State's history, while Akpabio praised Abiodun for his judicious use of increased federal allocations and commitment to infrastructure development.
