Air Peace’s London Flights Boost Trade; DGCA Advocates Fly Nigeria Act for Indigenous Airlines

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Air Peace London Inaugural Flight
Pix Mrs Alice Onyema, Vice Chairman , Air Peace, (5th left); Dr Allen Onyema, Chairman (6th left); Mr Festus Keyamo SAN, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development (9th left) flanked by crew members during Air Peace Lagos-London inaugural flight ceremony marking Air Peace entry into the European Continent held at the New Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos on Friday.

Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite and NCAA Acting DG Captain Chris Najomo, hailed Air Peace’s London route, foreseeing a positive trade impact.

During the inaugural Lagos-London flight on March 30, 2024, the airline transported 260 passengers aboard the 264-seater Boeing 777.

Minister Uzoka-Anite hailed Air Peace’s achievement as a blend of innovation, determination, and commitment to excellence.

She emphasized the significance of a local airline offering direct flights to the UK, promoting Nigerian capabilities globally.

Highlighting the economic benefits, she noted Air Peace’s role in trade, investment, and job creation.

“Let us reflect on the economic impact of this flight. Air Peace’s presence in London is not merely about arrivals and departures; it is about trade, investment, and collaboration. 

“By choosing Air Peace, you choose to invest in Nigeria. You choose to empower local businesses, create jobs, and strengthen our economy. In December 2023, the UK exported £185 million to Nigeria and imported £154 million, resulting in a negative trade balance of £30.8 million. 

“This is a trend we wish to change in Nigeria’s favour and an additional trade route is a major step in the right direction,” she said.

Captain Najomo stressed the need for governmental support, citing the Fly Nigeria Act as crucial for indigenous airlines’ success.

He assured backing from the regulatory body for Air Peace and other local carriers venturing into international routes.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo expressed delight in Air Peace’s new route and vowed to safeguard the airline and other Nigerian carriers.

He highlighted the economic benefits, predicting a reduction in forex demand and fare drops by other mega carriers.

Passengers on the inaugural London flight praised the service, heralding a new era in Nigeria’s travel industry and urging support for Air Peace.

 

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