Nigerian airlines, led by Air Peace, are gearing up to initiate flights to the United States in the near future.
This exciting development coincides with the Federal Government’s efforts to empower local operators in extending their international presence. Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has pledged to further reduce international flight prices while outlining strategies to ensure local airlines assume full control of international routes in the foreseeable future. He asserts that through the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Tinubu administration, his ministry is committed to dismantling barriers and fostering an environment conducive for both local and international carriers to thrive.
Recently, a representative of the Airline Operators of Nigeria, speaking anonymously, confirmed to our correspondent that Air Peace has been granted the right to fly to the US, with other airlines also under consideration. However, skepticism arises from aviation analyst Olumide Ohunayo, who doubts the readiness of Nigerian airlines for US routes due to capacity limitations and historical challenges. He emphasizes the importance of ownership of aircraft to navigate potential bilateral issues.
In contrast, Chief Operating Officer of United Nigeria Airlines, Osita Okonkwo, expresses confidence in his airline’s preparedness, highlighting the challenge of securing slots and permits from US authorities as the main hurdle. He emphasizes that fleet availability is not an issue but underscores the significance of the slot acquisition process.
Meanwhile, Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, clarifies that his airline’s focus remains within Africa, diverging from the trend of expanding beyond the continent. However, the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, assures ongoing efforts to meet requirements for international flights, emphasizing a commitment to compliance.
Despite differing perspectives, the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to Keyamo, Tunde Moshood, reaffirms the government’s willingness to allocate more international routes to local operators based on demonstrated readiness and capacity. He highlights the potential for local operators to secure routes under Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASA) once they exhibit consistency and capability.