Alleged Conspiracy by Foreign Airlines Threatens Air Peace’s Operations on Nigeria-UK Route, Chairman Raises Alarm

The Chairman of Nigeria’s indigenous carrier Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has sounded the alarm over what he alleges to be a conspiracy among foreign carriers operating the Nigeria-UK route. Onyema expressed concern that these carriers are intentionally lowering airfares to undermine Air Peace’s presence in international operations.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Onyema claimed there is an “unspoken alliance” among foreign airlines aiming to push Air Peace out of the Nigeria-London route. He highlighted recent instances of aggressive underpricing strategies, citing advertisements as low as $100 for a one-way ticket, which he believes are unsustainable and aimed at driving Air Peace out of business.

According to Onyema, this alleged conspiracy poses a significant threat not only to Air Peace but also to Nigeria’s economy, warning that the country would suffer dire consequences if Air Peace were forced out prematurely.

The Air Peace chairman called upon other Nigerian airlines to join the Nigeria-UK route to challenge the monopoly held by foreign carriers. He emphasized the importance of breaking this monopoly to ensure fair competition and safeguard the interests of Nigerian travelers.

Onyema expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Minister Keyamo for their support amid the challenges faced by Air Peace in navigating the complexities of operating international flights to London.

Air Peace recently commenced direct flight operations from Lagos to Gatwick Airport in London, a move hailed by industry observers as a positive step forward. The introduction of more affordable ticket prices by Air Peace has prompted foreign carriers to reduce their fares significantly to remain competitive in the market.

Encouraged by Air Peace’s initiative, there is a growing call for other local airlines to consider expanding into international flights, which could lead to increased opportunities and competition within the aviation sector.

The situation underscores the ongoing struggle between indigenous carriers and foreign airlines for dominance in Nigeria’s aviation industry, with Air Peace at the forefront of efforts to challenge foreign monopoly and promote the interests of Nigerian travelers.