The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace Limited, Dr Allen Onyema, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for what he described as transformative reforms in the aviation sector, particularly the revival of dry leasing opportunities for Nigerian airlines.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, Onyema said the implementation of the Cape Town Convention under Tinubu’s leadership has for the first time in over a decade allowed Nigerian carriers to access dry lease agreements, lifting Nigeria from the global lessors’ blacklist.
“This development is a game-changer for local operators. It allows us to lease aircraft efficiently, conserve foreign exchange, and makes it easier for Nigerian airlines to compete fairly with international carriers. This will also help reduce ticket prices,” Onyema said.
He also acknowledged the federal government’s provision of modern bird and wildlife control equipment at airports nationwide, which he said would enhance safety and operational efficiency.
Onyema described Tinubu as a leader who listens to local business interests and embraces the diversity of talent in Nigeria.
“President Tinubu is inclusive, deliberate in promoting unity, and supportive of those investing to create jobs. He has created a friendlier business climate for indigenous airlines, and we thank him for appointing Festus Keyamo to head the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development,” he said.
He called for further support from the federal government by establishing dedicated transit facilities at airports to ease regional and international connections, reduce check-in delays, and boost airport retail revenue.
Air Peace also announced plans to commence direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow on 26 October following approval from British authorities. The airline said flights from Abuja to Heathrow would run four times a week, while Lagos to London Gatwick would operate thrice weekly.
Additional routes to Congo, Gabon, and Brazzaville are expected before the end of the year, along with direct services to Antigua and Barbados.
Onyema said the airline is increasing its fleet capacity with more Boeing 777 and other wide-body aircraft through dry lease financing. He noted that Air Peace currently has 36 aircraft purchased outright and four on wet lease, with more deliveries expected soon.
He assured customers of improved service delivery, revealing that the airline has maintained over 85 per cent on-time performance since 12 May.
“Passengers can expect punctuality and better customer service as we upgrade operations. We want them to experience the new Air Peace,” he said.
Onyema said 94 per cent of flight delays and cancellations were due to external factors such as poor weather, inadequate airport infrastructure, bird and animal strikes, sunset airport closures, and unruly passengers.
He reported that the airline recorded 100 bird strikes in the past five years, with more than 30 occurring this year alone.
“Every strike impacts our daily operations. We cancel flights only when absolutely necessary,” he explained.
He further revealed that Air Peace will resume services to China and expand its regional and international network.
He thanked President Tinubu and Minister Keyamo for creating an environment conducive to business and aviation growth.
“This sector has never had it so good. Nigeria will soon receive new dry lease aircraft because of the minister’s efforts. We are proud to contribute to Nigeria’s aviation renaissance and hope Nigerians will support us,” Onyema concluded.