Air Peace Announces London Route from Gateway International Airport
Air Peace, Nigeria's largest airline and a prominent carrier in West Africa, has unveiled plans to commence international flight operations from Gateway International Airport in Ogun State to London this summer. The airline's Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, made this announcement during an interview with journalists after inspecting the airport facilities alongside Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Strategic Expansion and Infrastructure Praise
The visit followed the official commissioning of the airport by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a significant development in Nigeria's aviation landscape. According to Onyema, Air Peace will operate flights connecting Gateway International Airport to both London Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport, a move set to enhance connectivity and boost the region's economic prospects.
Onyema praised the Ogun State government for delivering a world-class aviation facility, describing the airport as one of the best-equipped in Sub-Saharan Africa. "This is one of the best-equipped airports in Sub-Saharan Africa, and Air Peace will not sit back and watch this facility go unused," he stated. "When you see a promising initiative, you must embrace it."
He emphasized that the airport's infrastructure meets global standards, highlighting its 4-kilometre runway, which is capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Airbus A380. Air Peace plans to deploy its Boeing 777 fleet for the London route, ensuring robust service and capacity.
Government Support and National Significance
Onyema also revealed that he had received approval from the Minister of Aviation to proceed with the operations, describing the project as a national asset rather than a purely state initiative. This endorsement underscores the strategic importance of the airport in Nigeria's broader aviation and economic plans.
In his remarks, Governor Abiodun announced ambitious plans to further expand the airport's ecosystem. This includes the construction of an international conference and convention centre, alongside a 550-room five-star hotel. He stated that these developments would position Ogun State as a hub for global business and tourism, attracting international visitors and investments.
Cargo Operations and Additional Airlines
The governor disclosed that cargo operations have already commenced with Allied Air, while Ethiopian Airlines is expected to begin operations soon. Additionally, another European carrier is set to launch cargo services into the state, diversifying the airport's offerings.
Abiodun projected that approximately 50 cargo flights would operate through the airport between April and the end of the year, highlighting the facility's growing role in logistics and trade.
Gateway Airlines and Enhanced Connectivity
Further boosting the airport's capabilities, Governor Abiodun revealed the establishment of Gateway Airlines, which has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft. The 90-seater planes are expected to enhance connectivity between Ogun State, Abuja, and other major Nigerian cities, facilitating domestic travel and integration.
With these comprehensive developments, the governor expressed confidence that Gateway International Airport could soon become Nigeria's third busiest aviation hub, after Lagos and Abuja, driving regional growth and national prominence.
