Air Peace to Launch London Flights from Gateway International Airport This Summer
Air Peace, Nigeria's largest airline and a prominent carrier in West Africa, has unveiled ambitious plans to commence international flight operations from Gateway International Airport to London this summer. The airline's Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, made this significant announcement during a press interview after inspecting the airport facilities alongside Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State. This visit occurred shortly after the official commissioning of the airport by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a pivotal moment for the region's aviation sector.
Strategic Flight Connections and Infrastructure Praise
According to Onyema, Air Peace will operate flights connecting Gateway International Airport to both London Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport, representing a major milestone for Ogun State's aviation industry. He lauded the 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," Onyema stated. "When you see a promising initiative, you must embrace it." He emphasized that the airport's infrastructure meets global standards, particularly highlighting its 4-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 robust and efficient service.
National Approval and Expansion Plans
Onyema also revealed that he had received approval from the Minister of Aviation to proceed with the operations, characterizing the project as a national asset rather than a purely state initiative. In his remarks, Governor Abiodun announced further expansion plans for the airport's ecosystem, including the construction of an international conference and convention centre alongside a 550-room five-star hotel. He asserted that these developments would position Ogun State as a hub for global business and tourism, enhancing its economic profile on the international stage.
Cargo Operations and New Airline Initiatives
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. Abiodun projected that approximately 50 cargo flights would operate through the airport between April and the end of the year, boosting trade and logistics in the region. Furthermore, he revealed the establishment of Gateway Airlines, which has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft. These 90-seater planes are expected to enhance connectivity between Ogun State, Abuja, and other major Nigerian cities, facilitating domestic travel and economic integration.
Future Prospects for Aviation Hub
With these comprehensive developments, Governor Abiodun expressed confidence that Gateway International Airport could soon become Nigeria's third busiest aviation hub, after Lagos and Abuja. This growth underscores the strategic importance of the airport in Nigeria's aviation landscape, promising increased connectivity, tourism, and business opportunities for Ogun State and beyond.
