Nigeria’s largest airline, Air Peace, has announced plans to commence international flight operations from Gateway International Airport to London this summer, marking a significant milestone for Ogun State’s aviation sector.
The airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Allen Onyema, disclosed this after inspecting the airport alongside Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, shortly after the facility was officially commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to Onyema, the airline will operate flights from the airport to both London Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport, positioning the new airport as an emerging international gateway.
He commended the Ogun State Government for delivering what he described as a world-class aviation facility, noting that the airport ranks among the best-equipped in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“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,” Onyema said. “When you see a promising initiative, you must embrace it.”
Highlighting the airport’s capabilities, Onyema pointed to its 4-kilometre runway, which can accommodate wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380. He added that Air Peace intends to deploy its Boeing 777 fleet for the London operations.
He also revealed that the airline has secured approval from the Minister of Aviation, describing the project as a national asset with broad economic significance.
In his remarks, Governor Abiodun outlined plans to expand the airport’s infrastructure with an international conference and convention centre, as well as a 550-room five-star hotel, aimed at positioning Ogun State as a hub for global business and tourism.
The governor further disclosed that cargo operations have already begun with Allied Air, while Ethiopian Airlines is expected to commence operations soon. He added that another European carrier is also set to begin cargo services into the state.
Abiodun projected that about 50 cargo flights would operate through the airport between April and the end of the year.
Additionally, he announced the establishment of Gateway Airlines, which has acquired two Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft. The 90-seater jets are expected to enhance connectivity between Ogun State, Abuja, and other major cities across Nigeria.
With these developments, the governor expressed confidence that Gateway International Airport could soon emerge as Nigeria’s third busiest aviation hub, after Lagos and Abuja.
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