By Ayomide Otitoju
Nigerian airline Air Peace will commence direct flights to London Heathrow Airport from Abuja on October 26, following a diplomatic breakthrough by the Federal Government.
The development was confirmed on Sunday by Tunde Moshood, spokesperson to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. The announcement follows protracted negotiations and enforcement of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
According to Moshood, the UK granted the airline landing rights after Nigeria issued a formal protest via a letter dated August 1, 2024, in which Minister Keyamo demanded Heathrow access for Air Peace or threatened reciprocal action against British carriers operating in Nigeria.
The approval marks a major diplomatic win, Keyamo said, adding that it affirms Nigeria’s commitment to defending the commercial interests of local airlines.
Air Peace launched its inaugural direct flight from Lagos to London Gatwick in March 2024. The Heathrow expansion is expected to boost its international presence while providing Nigerian passengers with increased convenience and connectivity.
