Air Peace, a leading Nigerian airline, has announced its expansion of regional connectivity with the launch of the Lome (Togo) route on July 28, 2023. In addition, the airline has partnered with Tour Brokers International to offer special flights to Antigua from August 5 to 9, 2023.
The Lagos-Lome-Lagos route will be operated using 50-seat Embraer 145 jets. Air Peace aims to strategically connect key cities in the West African sub-region strategically, facilitating easier connectivity for Africans and strengthening commercial ties between countries.
The airline’s commitment to easing Africa’s air transportation burden drives its route expansion and fleet modernisation efforts. Recently, Air Peace received two Boeing 737-700 aircraft to enhance its domestic and regional operations.
Regarding Antigua operations, Air Peace offers attractive flight deals for customers travelling to the Antigua Carnival. Air Peace is offering bespoke hotel packages provided by Tour Brokers International.
Air Peace also revealed plans to resume flights to China soon and is actively working on expanding connections and routes, including Congo, Kinshasa, and Abidjan. With the addition of the Lome route, Air Peace’s regional route strength will increase to eight. It includes Douala and Niamey, launched in 2021 and 2022, respectively.
Air Peace is Being Denied Flights to London
Despite these positive developments, Air Peace Chairman, Mr. Allen Onyema, shared the airline’s disappointment in being denied flying rights to London, United Kingdom. He highlighted that UK airlines, such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, operate 21 weekly flights to Nigeria. In contrast, Nigerian airlines face difficulties securing the same rights.
Reciprocity, a provision in bilateral air service agreements (BASAs), should ensure equal frequencies for airlines from both countries. However, Nigeria has not reciprocated over 70 BASAs signed with countries worldwide.
While Air Peace aims to enter the lucrative London market to provide more affordable options, the UK authorities have denied the airline’s application. Onyema emphasised that Nigerian airlines possess the capacity but lack the necessary support.
Despite these challenges, Air Peace continues to lead Nigeria’s aviation industry. It operates a network of twenty domestic routes, seven regional routes, and five international destinations.
