Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has revealed that the airline was denied clearance to operate flights into London for seven years by British authorities.
Speaking at an Air Peace Travel Agency forum in Abuja to promote its upcoming Abuja-London flights, Onyema disclosed that while British Airways enjoyed 21 frequencies, Air Peace was initially given only three slots, later increased to four after persistent lobbying.
According to him, despite securing slots, the airline was denied the mandatory Third Country Operator (TCO) approval, leaving the process stalled until President Bola Tinubu’s intervention paved the way.
“The President saw me as a Nigerian, not an Igbo, because I carry a Nigerian passport, and that’s why I will keep defending this administration,” Onyema said.
He clarified that the issue was not with the UK government itself, stressing that Britain “loves Air Peace” and is planning a grand welcome for the carrier.
He also commended Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, for promoting Nigerian airlines globally, and the British Deputy High Commissioner, Tony Bakster, for his assistance.
Onyema further expressed disappointment that some doubted Air Peace’s ability to operate the London route, noting the airline had already managed 110 daily flights and even operated flights to China for a year.
He urged travel agents to show patriotism by promoting Air Peace tickets, stressing that “selling Abuja to London flights creates jobs and puts food on people’s tables.”
Meanwhile, the airline will commence scheduled flights from Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to both London Heathrow and Gatwick on October 26, 2025, according to spokesman Efe Osifo-Whiskey