The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has expressed worry over what he perceives as a concerted effort by foreign airlines to undermine the operations of Nigerian carriers on the Nigeria-UK route. Onyema alleges that these airlines are engaging in predatory pricing tactics aimed at driving Air Peace out of the international market.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Onyema highlighted what he called an “unspoken alliance” among foreign carriers, accusing them of deliberately undercutting airfares to push Air Peace out of the Nigeria-London route. He cited recent instances of foreign airlines advertising fares well below operational costs, suggesting a coordinated effort to cripple Air Peace’s operations.
Onyema warned of dire consequences for Nigeria if Air Peace is forced out prematurely, emphasizing potential economic losses and strain on the national currency. He attributed recent challenges faced by Air Peace at Gatwick Airport, including groundhandling and space allocation issues, to this alleged conspiracy.
In a call for solidarity among Nigerian airlines, Onyema urged other carriers to join the Nigeria-UK route to break the monopoly enjoyed by foreign operators. He acknowledged the complexities of international aeropolitics but stressed the importance of standing firm against unfair competition.
Expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Minister Keyamo for their support, Onyema emphasized the need for domestic solidarity amidst political challenges in operating flights to London.
Air Peace’s recent commencement of direct flights from Lagos to Gatwick Airport has been welcomed by industry observers as a positive development. This initiative has spurred calls for other local airlines to explore international routes, fostering increased competition and opportunities within the aviation sector.
The introduction of Air Peace’s competitively priced return economy class ticket at N1.2 million has prompted foreign carriers to adjust their fares significantly, signaling a shift towards a more competitive market environment on the Lagos-London route.
