The aviation bridge between the United Kingdom and Nigeria just got stronger. Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, has officially launched a new direct flight from London Gatwick to Abuja, deepening ties between the two nations and expanding travel options for business and leisure passengers alike.
The inaugural flight took off on October 28, marking Air Peace’s second major route from London Gatwick after its highly successful daily Lagos service, which began in March 2024. The new Abuja route operates three times weekly from Gatwick’s South Terminal, offering passengers greater flexibility and convenience when travelling between the two capitals.
This milestone is especially meaningful for Nigeria’s large UK-based diaspora and for the growing number of British businesses investing in West Africa’s dynamic markets.
Gatwick Strengthens Its African Footprint
London Gatwick continues to position itself as one of Europe’s top gateways to Africa. The airport recently recorded its busiest summer ever for African travel, with over 670,000 passengers flying between Gatwick and African destinations in the third quarter alone a 9% increase from 2024 and a remarkable 96% surge compared to 2019.
With the addition of the Abuja route, Gatwick now serves 21 direct African destinations, including Nairobi (Kenya), Entebbe (Uganda) and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia). This growing network improves accessibility across East, West and Central Africa and supports the UK’s efforts to deepen trade, education, and investment ties across the continent.
Air Peace: Championing African Aviation
Air Peace’s expansion at Gatwick reflects a broader movement by African airlines to strengthen global connectivity and enhance the region’s aviation reputation. Known for its modern fleet, competitive pricing, and Nigerian hospitality, the airline continues to challenge outdated perceptions of African air travel.
Passengers flying with Air Peace can expect non-stop connections to Nigeria, generous baggage allowances, and seamless multi-city links within the country all on a single ticket.
Nowel Ngala
Chief Commercial Officer of Air Peace, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to expand our UK operations with the launch of the Abuja service from London Gatwick. This milestone reinforces our commitment to deepening Nigeria–UK connectivity while advancing our vision of seamless air travel between Africa and the rest of the world.
A Boost for Culture, Business and Family Connections
Beyond aviation, the new route carries social and cultural importance. The UK is home to one of Europe’s largest African communities, and improved connectivity means easier reunions, stronger family ties, and more vibrant cultural exchanges.
At the same time, Africa’s growing middle class is fueling outbound travel to destinations like London long known for its shopping, education and cultural experiences.
Looking Ahead
The London–Abuja route represents more than just a new flight path it’s a symbol of partnership, progress and shared opportunity between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
As Air Peace continues to bridge continents and London Gatwick expands its global reach, the collaboration highlights the future of international aviation one that connects people, economies and cultures across borders.
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