Air Peace chairman Allen Onyema said British authorities prevented his airline from getting clearance to fly into London for seven years, delaying the Nigerian carrier’s entry into one of the world’s busiest aviation markets.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Onyema made the disclosure in Abuja while speaking about the struggles African airlines face when trying to compete internationally. He said Air Peace finally launched its Lagos-to-London flights earlier this year after a long fight with regulators in the United Kingdom.

“This was not an easy journey,” Onyema said. “For seven years, they refused to give us clearance. But we never gave up, and today Nigerians can fly directly from Lagos to London on a Nigerian airline.”

Background of the Dispute

Air Peace, founded in 2013, is Nigeria’s largest airline. It operates domestic and international flights across Africa, the Middle East, India, and now Europe. The airline announced its Lagos-London service in March 2024, quickly becoming a popular option for Nigerian travelers.

Onyema said the airline’s attempt to secure a London route began as early as 2016, but the application was blocked repeatedly. He did not provide details of the specific restrictions but suggested the delay was linked to protectionist policies in the UK aviation sector.

Industry experts say foreign carriers, especially those from Africa, often face barriers when trying to access key European destinations. Major airlines from Europe, such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, have long dominated the lucrative Nigeria-UK market.

Lower Fares, More Competition

When Air Peace finally began flying to London, it shook up the market by offering lower ticket prices. Fares on the Lagos-London route, which had climbed above $1,500 at times, dropped significantly as a result of the competition.

Travelers welcomed the move, saying it was long overdue. “For the first time in years, I could afford to fly to London to see my family,” said Lagos resident Chinedu Nwosu. “Air Peace made it possible.”

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have also adjusted their pricing in response to Air Peace’s entry. Aviation analysts say this is a clear example of how increased competition benefits consumers.

Ongoing Challenges

Despite the progress, Onyema warned that Nigerian airlines still face many obstacles when trying to expand internationally. He cited high operating costs, limited access to foreign exchange, and political pressure from larger carriers.

“It is not just about London. Anywhere we try to go, we meet resistance,” he said. “But we are determined to keep fighting. Nigerian airlines deserve the same opportunities as others.”

The Nigerian government has pledged to support local airlines through bilateral air service agreements, also known as BASAs. These agreements are meant to guarantee fair access for carriers on both sides. Officials say they will continue pressing the UK and other countries to respect Nigeria’s aviation rights.

Wider Impact

Air Peace’s success in breaking into the London market has wider implications for Africa’s aviation industry. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has long said that Africa is underserved by its own airlines, with foreign carriers controlling most international routes.

Analysts believe Air Peace’s entry into Europe could inspire other African airlines to expand as well. “This is a milestone,” said Lagos-based aviation consultant Tunde Adebayo. “If Air Peace can survive the London route, it will prove that African airlines can compete globally.”

For passengers, the biggest impact remains affordability. Many Nigerians rely on the UK route for business, education, and family connections. With more options, prices are likely to stay lower, easing the financial burden on travelers.

Onyema said Air Peace plans to expand further into Europe and North America in the coming years. Routes under consideration include New York, Houston, and Frankfurt.

“We are not stopping in London,” Onyema said. “We want to show the world that Nigerian airlines can meet international standards and provide quality service.”

For now, the chairman says the airline’s focus is on maintaining its London route and proving that it can compete fairly with established European carriers.

“This is just the beginning,” he said.