The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has sounded the alarm regarding what he perceives as a concerted effort by foreign carriers on the Nigeria-UK route to push Air Peace out of international operations by drastically reducing airfares.
Onyema claims there’s an “unspoken alliance” among these foreign airlines to undercut Air Peace’s prices, particularly on the Nigeria-London route. He warns that if Air Peace is forced out prematurely, the repercussions for Nigeria would be severe, including significant financial losses and added strain on the national currency.
Air Peace recently initiated direct flight operations from Lagos to Gatwick Airport in London, offering significantly lower fares compared to existing foreign carriers. This move has been praised by industry observers, encouraging other local airlines to consider entering international markets.
The drastic reduction in airfares by Air Peace has compelled foreign airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Qatar Airways to slash their prices in response to remain competitive.
However, Onyema accuses these foreign carriers of engaging in deliberate tactics to frustrate Air Peace’s operations, citing difficulties with ground handling and space allocation at Gatwick Airport.
He describes this situation as a “devilish conspiracy” orchestrated to undermine Air Peace and maintain their dominance in the market.
Onyema urges other Nigerian airlines to join the Nigeria-UK route to challenge the monopoly held by foreign carriers operating into major Nigerian airports.
He acknowledges the challenges of international aeropolitics but insists that someone must bear the cost. Onyema expresses gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Minister Keyamo for their support as Air Peace navigates the complexities of operating on the London route.
