Air Peace Seeks Collaboration with Norse Atlantic for London Gatwick Flights

Air Peace, Nigeria’s leading airline, is exploring a partnership with Norse Atlantic (United Kingdom) to initiate services between Lagos and London Gatwick, amidst challenges in securing its own slots at the coveted British airport. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, shared insights on the airline’s efforts, including his recent visit to the UK to advocate for Air Peace’s access to Gatwick.

Despite initial discussions between Air Peace and Norse Atlantic, the engagement remains in the early stages, with Norse Atlantic’s Senior Vice-President (Communications) Philip Allport confirming only an “initial informal meeting” on the matter. The collaboration could potentially allow Air Peace to leverage Norse Atlantic’s 44 weekly slots at Gatwick for the Summer 2024 season, offering a strategic solution to the Nigerian carrier’s slot acquisition dilemma.

Norse Atlantic, which operates flights to several destinations from Gatwick, including Bridgetown, Miami, Montego Bay, New York JFK, and Orlando, has not disclosed whether it will lease or trade any of its slots to Air Peace. The airline’s upcoming schedule also includes new routes to Boston and Las Vegas, utilizing its fleet of six Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

Air Peace, which received authorization to operate to the UK in November 2023, has yet to begin services due to slot acquisition challenges. The airline’s fleet comprises one 777-200ER, two 777-300s, and a mix of narrowbody and regional jets. With firm orders for additional aircraft, including E175s, 737-8s, and E195-E2s, Air Peace is poised for expansion, pending the resolution of its UK market access.

The potential cooperation with Norse Atlantic represents a significant opportunity for Air Peace to fulfill its ambition of connecting Nigeria directly with London Gatwick, catering to the strong demand for travel between the two countries. As discussions progress, stakeholders remain hopeful for a positive outcome that will enhance connectivity and choice for passengers traveling between Nigeria and the UK.