Air Peace has announced plans to begin international flight operations connecting London to Gateway International Airport in Ogun State this summer, marking a significant step in expanding Nigeria’s aviation network.
The airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, disclosed the development while speaking with journalists after inspecting the airport facilities alongside Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.
“We are coming here, under the instrumentality of his invitation, to start doing London Gatwick, London Heathrow to Gateway International Airport this summer,” Onyema said.
The announcement followed the recent commissioning of the airport by President Bola Tinubu, an event that has drawn attention to the facility’s potential as a new aviation hub.
According to Onyema, the airline will operate flights linking both Gatwick and Heathrow airports in London directly to Ogun State, describing the move as a major milestone for regional and international connectivity.
He commended the state government for delivering what he described as a world-class aviation facility, noting that Air Peace is keen to utilise the infrastructure.
“This is one of the best-equipped airports in Sub-Saharan Africa, and Air Peace will not sit back and watch this facility go unused. When you see a promising initiative, you must embrace it,” he said.
Highlighting the airport’s capabilities, Onyema pointed to its four-kilometre runway, which can accommodate wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380.
He added that the airline intends to deploy its Boeing 777 fleet for the London route.
The Air Peace boss also revealed that the airline has received approval from the aviation ministry to proceed with the planned operations, describing the project as one of national significance rather than a purely state-driven initiative.
In his remarks, Governor Abiodun outlined broader plans to develop the airport into a major economic hub.
He disclosed that an international conference and convention centre, as well as a 550-room five-star hotel, would be constructed to complement the facility.
The governor said these developments are aimed at positioning Ogun State as a destination for global business and tourism.
He also revealed that cargo operations have already commenced with Allied Air, while Ethiopian Airlines is expected to begin operations soon.
Another European cargo carrier is also being anticipated.
Abiodun projected that about 50 cargo flights would operate through the airport between April and the end of the year, reflecting growing commercial interest in the facility.
He also announced the establishment of Gateway Airlines, which has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft.
The 90-seater planes are expected to improve connectivity between Ogun State and other major cities across Nigeria.
With these developments, the governor expressed optimism that Gateway International Airport could emerge as Nigeria’s third busiest aviation hub, after Lagos and Abuja.
