Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced that Air Peace will commence direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport on October 26, 2025.
The breakthrough comes after sustained diplomatic pressure by the Federal Government to enforce Nigeria’s rights under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the United Kingdom.
In a statement released Sunday and signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, Keyamo revealed that the move was the result of a strongly worded letter sent on August 1, 2024, to the UK Secretary of State for Transport, Rt. Hon. Louise Haigh.
In the letter, Nigeria demanded the allocation of landing slots at Heathrow to Air Peace—or face reciprocal action, including a potential review of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic’s access to Nigerian airports.
“This is not just a win for Air Peace, but a significant diplomatic milestone for Nigeria,” said Keyamo. “It sends a clear message that we are serious about enforcing the terms of our bilateral agreements and protecting the commercial interests of our indigenous carriers.”
He noted that the successful negotiations underscore President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes creating a supportive environment for Nigerian businesses to thrive globally.
Air Peace had earlier launched its inaugural Lagos–London Gatwick route in March 2024, becoming the first Nigerian airline in recent history to operate a direct UK service.
The addition of London Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest and most prestigious international hubs, is expected to dramatically boost Air Peace’s global footprint and offer Nigerian travellers greater ease and access.
Keyamo concluded by stating that this milestone sets a precedent for fairer treatment of Nigerian carriers and improved enforcement of bilateral aviation agreements going forward.
What you should know
Air Peace will begin direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport on October 26, 2025, following diplomatic efforts led by Minister Festus Keyamo. The move ensures Nigeria’s rights under its aviation agreement with the UK and marks a major step in boosting Air Peace’s international presence.
