In an exclusive interview with Arise Television on Monday, Allen Onyema, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Air Peace Airlines, revealed the airline’s ambitious plans for international expansion, including the much-anticipated Abuja-London route and flights to New York and Houston by the end of 2024.
Onyema expressed the airline’s readiness to tackle new routes, citing the current seven daily flights into Gatwick Airport from Nigeria as evidence of their capacity.
He emphasized the company’s preparedness to expand its operations, mentioning ongoing efforts to acquire more aircraft to support this growth.
“We are ready, if the government gives us Abuja-London, I will do it, because we are expecting more aircraft into the country purchased by Air Peace. If we get it, we will do it,” Onyema affirmed.
Furthermore, Onyema outlined the airline’s strategy to introduce flights to major international destinations, stating, “Like, we are planning to hit New York or Houston towards the end of the year, because we are bringing in more 777s.”
He provided insight into the current procurement process, revealing that Air Peace staff are currently in California inspecting three 777s slated for acquisition.
Onyema expressed optimism about the timeline, stating, “If we could get them in the next two or three months, then of course, we are good to go anywhere.”
However, Onyema highlighted the challenges faced by the airline in realizing its long-awaited Lagos-London flights. He cited internal and external conspiracies as obstacles, noting the complexities of international aero politics.
Reflecting on the struggles encountered, Onyema remarked, “It took us seven years. We got the designation I think about six and a half years ago to go into London. Since then, it has been Cat-and-Mouse game.”
Addressing the need for support from the Federal Government, Onyema stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment for indigenous airlines.
He urged authorities to prioritize the ease of doing business for airlines, emphasizing the potential for growth and success if given the necessary support.
“In our own country, what we are pleading – I like when you said support – the ease of doing business, let them even do that for the indigenous airlines and see us blossom, instead of badmouthing these airlines that pass through all manner of problems,” Onyema urged.
As Air Peace continues to navigate challenges and pursue its expansion goals, all eyes are on the airline’s next moves in reshaping Nigeria’s aviation landscape on both regional and international fronts.
Stay tuned for further developments as Air Peace strives to soar to new heights in the global aviation industry.