Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, announced plans to begin international operations from London to Gateway International Airport this summer.
The airline’s CEO, Allen Onyema, revealed the plan after inspecting the airport 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 visit followed the official commissioning of the airport by President Bola Tinubu on Saturday.
Air Peace will connect both London Gatwick and Heathrow airports to Ogun State, marking a major milestone in the region’s aviation growth.
“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,” Onyema added.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure and Fleet Deployment
The airline chief said the airport’s four-kilometre runway meets global standards and can accommodate large aircraft, including the Airbus A380.
“Air Peace will deploy its Boeing 777 fleet for the London route,” Onyema confirmed, highlighting the airline’s readiness to support international operations.
He noted that the project had approval from the aviation ministry and described the airport as a national asset, not just a state initiative.
Governor Abiodun outlined plans to expand the airport’s ecosystem with an international conference centre and a 550-room five-star hotel.
“These developments will position Ogun State as a hub for global business and tourism,” the governor said.
Cargo operations have already begun with Allied Air, while Ethiopian Airlines and another European carrier are expected to start soon.
“We project about 50 cargo flights will operate through the airport between April and the end of the year,” Abiodun revealed.
Gateway Airlines and Future Growth Prospects
The governor also announced Gateway Airlines, which has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft.
“The 90-seater planes will improve connectivity between Ogun and other major Nigerian cities,” he said.
With these developments, Abiodun expressed confidence that Gateway International Airport could soon rank as Nigeria’s third busiest hub after Lagos and Abuja.
“We are committed to making this facility a gateway for commerce, tourism, and regional connectivity,” he added.
Say a word of congratulations to the people and government of Ogun State for the new state-of-the-art Gateway International Airport. Could this airport soon rival Lagos and Abuja as Nigeria’s leading aviation hub? Share your views in the comments section.
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