The Acting Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCCA), Captain Chris Najomo, has called on the federal government to adopt the ‘Fly Nigeria Act’ for public servants as a way to aid domestic carriers on international routes.
Najomo made the call at the commencement of the long-awaited Air Peace Lagos-London Gatwick service kicked off on Saturday, March 30, 2024 with endless accolades by many Nigerians who described the inaugural flight as phenomenal.
The maiden flight operated by a 274-seat capacity Boeing 777 had 260 passengers on board, including dignitaries and celebrities.
At a brief ceremony before the take off of the flight, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, promised that the federal government would continue to protect the airline and other Nigerian carriers that might want to operate international service.
He opined that the commencement of direct Lagos-London route by Air Peace would ease the pressure on naira, while the demand for foreign exchange by Nigerians and foreign airlines would reduce.
Keyamo explained that the start of the route by the airline had also compelled some mega carriers on the Lagos-London route to drop fares and assured of government support.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, described the feat by Air Peace as the convergence of innovation, determination, and the unwavering commitment to excellence.
She said: “Nigeria has needed a local airline flying directly to the UK for a number of years. Air Peace proudly wears the badge of ‘Made in Nigeria.’
“It is a symbol of our collective effort to showcase our capabilities to the world. From the skilled hands that maintain the aircraft to the warm smiles of the cabin crew, every aspect of Air Peace reflects the spirit of our nation.
“Let us reflect on the economic impact of this flight. Air Peace’s presence in London is not merely about arrivals and departures; it is about trade, investment, and collaboration. By choosing Air Peace, you choose to invest in Nigeria. You choose to empower local businesses, create jobs, and strengthen our economy.
“In December 2023, the UK exported £185 million from Nigeria and imported £154 million, resulting in a negative trade balance of £30.8 million. This is a trend we wish to change in Nigeria’s favour and an additional trade route is a major step in the right direction.”
Uzoka-Anite further said the choice of Nigerians to fly with Air Peace is a vote of confidence, adding that the airline has a commendable safety record, holding a 7 out of 7 safety rating according to Airline Ratings and has successfully undergone the International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification four times, signifying its commitment to rigorous safety standards.
“So I entreat all potential passengers to trust them to carry you safely across continents, and remember that you are part of a movement; a movement that encourages Nigerians to patronise their own. Let us be ambassadors in the skies, sharing stories of our rich heritage, our vibrant culture, and the warmth that defines us,” she added.
Najomo while speaking at the event, on his part insisted that for indigenous airlines to succeed on any international routes, it was necessary for the government to adopt the ‘Fly Nigeria Act’ for public officials.
He also promised that the NCAA would support Air Peace and other indigenous airlines to succeed on international routes unlike in the past.