Minister Keyamo In London, Discusses Air Peace’s Possible Flights Into Gatwick Airport
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), yesterday in London, United Kingdom held discussions primarily revolving around the strategic partnership between Norse Atlantic Airways and Nigeria’s Air Peace, and the possible permit of Air Peace to operate flights into Gatwick Airport. The discussions were held during Keyamo’s meeting with the management of Norse Atlantic Airways, led by CEO Mr. Ben Boiling. Norse Atlantic Airways is a major carrier in the UK and Europe.
A statement signed by Tunde Moshood, SA Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development says “acknowledging Air Peace’ significant presence on regional and international routes, the Minister commended the partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways as a positive step towards enhancing connectivity and facilitating growth within the sector. He underscored the pivotal role of aviation in the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, spearheaded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy.
Expressing gratitude for the Minister’s involvement in the discussions, Mr. Boiling affirmed Norse Atlantic Airways’ readiness to commence the partnership with Air Peace pending final authorization for direct flights into Gatwick Airport from Lagos, Nigeria.
Simultaneously, officials from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) engaged in discussions with counterparts from the UK Department for Transport to address challenges related to slot allocation for Air Peace’ operations at Gatwick Airport. Despite acknowledging the UK government’s limited authority over slot allocation, both parties deliberated on key issues hindering the commencement of flights, including departure times, turnaround times, and the approval process for the 2024 summer schedule.”
The statement further says the Minister “reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to bolstering the growth and prosperity of Nigeria’s airlines, ensuring they thrive in the global aviation landscape.”
The Minister highlighted Nigerian government’s unwavering support for domestic carriers, emphasizing the importance of breaking new grounds and fostering partnerships to sustain the viability of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The Nigerian delegation, comprising Capt. Chris Najomo, Ag. Director General of NCAA; Mr. Hassan Ejibunu, Director of Air Transport Management at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development; and Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iriobe, Director of Air Transport Regulations at NCAA, engaged constructively with UK authorities to facilitate a resolution conducive to Air Peace’ entry into the UK market.
“The outcome of the discussions is eagerly anticipated, with stakeholders optimistic that resolutions will be reached to enable Air Peace fulfill its commitment to serving Nigerian travelers and meeting the growing demand for direct flights to the United Kingdom” states Moshood.
