Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Festus Keyamo says Air Peace’s launch into Gatwick, London, is aimed at disrupting British carriers’ dominance.
Keyamo emphasizes Air Peace’s bold move, starting the UK’s 21 weekly slots, with British Airways occupying 14, highlighting the competition.
The Minister also said Nigeria would reciprocate If subtle obstacles to frustrate Air Peace are introduced.
He asserts “Air Peace will compete vigorously,” addressing the imbalance and promoting fair market competition.
Keyamo underscored the economic benefits, citing Air Peace’s role in alleviating pressure on the naira. “Air Peace, as a Nigerian company, will repatriate funds locally, easing currency pressure on the naira.”
Keyamo however expressed disappointment that Nigerian carriers would still have to fly out for checks also putting pressure on the naira.
“One of our major foci is to bring the MROs into Nigeria. The key to unlocking this country is to ensure that the maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities come into the county as quickly as possible.”
He also said local operators are handicapped due to lack of access to dry lease aircraft.
“There is no airline in the world that buys their fleet 100 per cent. It is not possible. Statistics say that out of 100 aircraft flying around the world, about 70 per cent of those aircraft are on dry lease from leasing companies and aircraft manufacturers. So, why can’t we take advantage of these lease arrangements to empower our local operators.
“We as a government must ensure that local carriers that want to embark on international routes have access to aircraft on dry leases. If they don’t have it, it will be difficult to sustain international routes,” he said.
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