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The Chief Customer Officer of Heathrow Airport, Mr. Ross Baker, has applauded Nigerian carrier, Air Peace, for its historic inauguration of direct flights between Abuja and London Heathrow Airport – describing the milestone as a “powerful symbol of progress and partnership” between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Speaking at the vibrant inaugural ceremony held at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3, Mr. Baker said the event marked “a truly exciting milestone – one that has been years in the making.”
He noted that Air Peace’s entry into the United Kingdom’s busiest international gateway signified not only the expansion of Nigeria’s aviation frontier but also the strengthening of bilateral and socio-economic ties between both nations.
“It’s a real pleasure to welcome everyone here today at Heathrow for a truly exciting milestone – one that has been years in the making. The launch of Air Peace’s direct service between London Heathrow and Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, marks more than just the beginning of a new route; it represents the start of a stronger, more connected future between our two nations,” he said.
Baker commended Air Peace’s visionary leadership and resilience in navigating the rigorous processes required to secure landing rights at Heathrow – a globally competitive hub serving over 200 destinations worldwide.
He described the airline’s debut as a moment of immense pride for the African continent and a defining step in Nigeria’s journey towards reclaiming its place in international aviation.
“Abuja is a vibrant and important destination. Nearly 140,000 passengers travelled between the United Kingdom and Abuja last year alone, and we’re thrilled that this new service will make the connection even stronger,” Baker remarked.
He emphasised that Heathrow’s collaboration with Air Peace mirrors a shared commitment to fostering global connectivity, improving passenger choice, and expanding economic opportunities between Africa and Europe. The new route, according to him, demonstrates how strategic airline partnerships can bridge cultures, boost tourism, and stimulate trade.
The launch marks the return of Nigeria’s national colours to London Heathrow after more than a decade – a development widely celebrated as a victory for indigenous enterprise and national pride.
Air Peace, which already operates long-haul flights to destinations such as Jeddah, Mumbai, and Guangzhou, now joins the elite league of African airlines flying into Heathrow, one of the world’s most prestigious aviation hubs.
Aviation experts have lauded the move as a defining moment in Nigeria’s commercial aviation landscape, with Air Peace’s expansion expected to significantly reduce the travel gap between West Africa and the United Kingdom.
It also provides Nigerians and foreign travellers with a more affordable, direct, and nationally operated alternative for transcontinental travel.
Mr. Baker’s remarks further highlight the increasing recognition of Air Peace as a key player in redefining Africa’s aviation narrative. The airline’s success, he noted, reflects not only operational excellence but also Nigeria’s growing role as a hub for international air transport and business.
Air Peace’s Abuja–London Heathrow service is now expected to operate multiple times weekly, connecting passengers seamlessly between the political heart of Nigeria and the global crossroads of Europe.
The carrier has reiterated its commitment to maintaining world-class safety standards, comfort, and hospitality – hallmarks that continue to distinguish it as a leading African airline.
With this milestone, Air Peace has reaffirmed its mission to “connect people, cultures, and economies” while flying the Nigerian flag with dignity across international skies.
As Heathrow’s Chief puts it, this achievement is more than an operational success – it is “a celebration of resilience, ambition, and the unbreakable bond between nations.”
