Since its debut of direct flights from Lagos to London Gatwick on March 30, 2024, Air Peace has stirred national pride and shaken up the UK–Nigeria air travel dynamic. The airline’s bold venture has brought down ticket prices and showcased the prowess of indigenous carriers .
Yet, landing at Heathrow Airport—London’s flagship hub—remains elusive. Despite persistent efforts, Air Peace has been restricted to Gatwick, prompting questions about fairness and equal opportunities under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) . Critics argue this is a calculated move to protect entrenched carriers like BA and Virgin Atlantic.
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has taken a firm stance. In a formal warning to UK officials, he urged them to uphold reciprocity: either allocate Air Peace a Heathrow slot or face potential restrictions on UK airlines at Lagos and Abuja airports . He reminded the UK that bilateral agreements demand mutual access for both nations’ flag carriers.
Air Peace, under the leadership of Allen Onyema, vies not just for commercial success but for symbolic equity. This is more than an airline’s ambition—it’s a demand that Nigeria’s national interests be respected on the global stage. As the showdown intensifies, Nigeria stands firm: Air Peace deserves Heathrow, or it’s Heathrow—or‑nothing.
