Air Peace has made headlines with a remarkable 66% reduction in airfares from Lagos to London, a move hailed by passengers as a game-changer in the industry.
The decision by the CEO of Air Peace, Chief Allen Onyema, to slash the economy class ticket price to N1.2 million is a stark contrast to the average N3.5 million charged by foreign airlines for the same route.
Nollywood actress Omoni Oboli enthusiastically stated, “It is a big win for all Nigerians, and we are all going to patronise him massively. I am very proud of Air Peace and Mr. Onyema and what he is doing.”
Ufuoma McDermott, another prominent figure in Nollywood, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the accessibility of Air Peace’s offerings.
“Many Nigerians can partake of this ingenuity, and I feel a sense of pride being in the flight,” Ufuoma said.
The entry of Air Peace into the Lagos-London route poses a significant challenge to British Airways, which previously enjoyed exclusive direct flights. Air Peace now offers flights to Gatwick, London, providing passengers with more options and competitive pricing.
Air Peace’s inaugural flight to London on March 30, 2024, marked the beginning of this new era in air travel. Minister of Aviation Festus Kayamu, who was onboard, commended Air Peace for its commitment to showcasing Nigerian hospitality, highlighting the inclusion of local delicacies such as Zobo and Kilishi among the in-flight snacks.
In addition to the reduced economy class fare, Air Peace offers a return business class ticket for four million naira. Furthermore, Nigerian students studying in the UK can avail themselves of a special 15% rebate on economy class fares.
A comparison with other airlines reveals the significant cost advantage of Air Peace. British Airways economy class return ticket from Lagos to London costs approximately N4.7 million, while Virgin Atlantic’s economy class ticket ranges from N3.1 million to N6.1 million. Qatar Airways offers economy class return tickets ranging from N1.7 million to N3.2 million, depending on the ticket class.
Other notable personalities that boarded the first flight include Allen Onyema and his wife Alice; Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo; businessman and socialite, Obi Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana; a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association, Olumide Apata; and Nollywood stars Uche Jumbo, Chioma Akpotha, and others.