A new chapter in UK-Nigeria air travel is unfolding as Gatwick Airport announces a dedicated charter service to Lagos. Facilitated by Norse Atlantic Airways and Nigerian carrier Air Peace, this strategic alliance aims to enhance connectivity.
Initially launched as a two-month operation starting this April, the service is poised to potentially extend longer, fostering stronger ties between London and Nigeria’s largest city.
Gatwick Airport is set to enhance its connectivity with the introduction of a new service linking London and Lagos. This service will be facilitated by Norse Atlantic Airways through charter agreements with Nigerian carrier Air Peace. Initially slated for a two-month operation starting this April, this service will utilise Air Peace’s allocated slots at Gatwick, deploying the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
The collaboration marks a significant strategic partnership between Norse Atlantic Airways and Air Peace. The alliance aims to provide seamless air travel between the UK and Nigeria, capitalising on the strengths of both carriers. While initially a short-term agreement, both airlines are exploring avenues for a more permanent collaboration. This joint venture signifies a mutual commitment to expanding their international reach.
Norse Atlantic’s founder, Bjorn Tore Larsen, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to be working with Air Peace to launch this ACMI charter service between London Gatwick and Lagos.”
Allen Onyema, Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, shared his enthusiasm, highlighting the partnership’s potential to boost their European market presence and enhance customer experience. As Onyema observed, this venture positions Air Peace to exceed customer expectations while striving for innovation in service delivery.
Initially, the service will operate four times weekly, allowing passengers considerable flexibility in travel planning. The choice of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a strategic decision, aimed at offering comfort and efficiency for passengers on this long-haul route.
There is potential for the service duration to extend beyond the initial two months should demand and logistical factors prove favourable. Discussions are ongoing to solidify a longer-term presence.
The introduction of this route is likely to stimulate economic ties between the UK and Nigeria, facilitating business and leisure travel. Such international connectivity is crucial in bolstering bilateral trade and tourism.
By bridging these two bustling metropolises, Norse Atlantic and Air Peace contribute significantly to aviation market growth, potentially paving the way for future collaborations in the industry.
Both companies are keen on exploring potential expansions of services beyond the initial timeline. The opportunity to establish a longer-term presence in this corridor aligns with broader strategic goals for international expansion.
Stakeholders remain optimistic about the future potential of this partnership. Should this initial phase prove successful, more routes and increased frequency could be on the horizon, further enriching travel options for passengers.
This new air link signifies a move toward dynamic international aviation partnerships, harnessing collective strengths to enhance route networks.
The collaboration between Norse Atlantic Airways and Air Peace through this charter service marks an important step in strengthening UK-Nigeria transport links. By leveraging their collective expertise, both carriers aim to provide a reliable travel solution while exploring further growth opportunities in global aviation.
