Air Peace Airline has announced it will begin Abuja to London Heathrow flights on October 26, following approval from British authorities.Chairman of the airline, Dr. Allen Onyema, made the disclosure during a press briefing in Lagos on Wednesday, noting that the approval reflects the confidence the global aviation sector has in the airline.
He revealed that the airline also plans to expand its schedule to include Congo, Gabon, and Brazzaville before the year ends.Flights from Abuja to London Heathrow will operate four times a week, while Lagos to London Gatwick flights will run three times weekly. Additionally, direct flights to the Caribbean will begin in September, starting with Antigua and later extending to Barbados.
Onyema stated that Air Peace is increasing its fleet capacity, including the acquisition of Boeing 777 wide-body aircraft through dry lease arrangements. The airline currently operates 36 aircraft owned outright and four on wet lease, with new aircraft expected shortly.
He assured passengers of improved punctuality, stating that since May 12, the airline has maintained over 85 percent on-time performance. He emphasized that the airline is focused on enhancing its customer service.
Addressing flight delays and cancellations, Onyema said that 94 percent are due to external factors such as poor weather, infrastructure challenges, bird and animal strikes, inadequate landing equipment, sunset airport restrictions, and unruly passengers.
He noted that Air Peace experienced 100 bird strikes in the past five years, with over 30 occurring this year alone, which often disrupts the day’s flight schedule.The airline, he added, does not cancel flights without reason and takes such decisions only when necessary.
Onyema highlighted that Air Peace has met international safety standards and plans to resume its China route soon, along with other regional and international destinations.
He commended President Bola Tinubu and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo for improving the business climate in the aviation industry, noting that Nigeria is set to receive dry lease aircraft thanks to the minister’s efforts. He urged Nigerians to support and patronize the airline.
Source : https://nannews.ng/
