The minister of aviation, Festus Keyamo, has said that Nigeria is discussing with the United Kingdom to actualise direct flights from Lagos to London.
This was contained in a statement on Saturday by Odutayo Oluseyi, spokesperson to the minister.
According to Oluseyi, Keyamo spoke during a meeting with the management of NORSE Atlantic Airways, led by its CEO, Ben Boiling, in London.
Keyamo said he is speaking with UK transport officials and the discussion is centred on the partnership between NORSE Atlantic Airways and Air Peace.
He emphasised that NORSE Atlantic Airways is a major carrier in UK and Europe.
Speaking on the issue, Oluwatoyin Olajide, chief operating officer (CEO) of Air Peace, expressed optimism that the outcome of the meeting would fulfil its purpose of enabling the airline to commence its flight operations into the UK.
Furthermore, Keyamo said one of his key goals in office was to ensure the growth and development of Nigeria’s domestic airlines, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Responding to the minister, Boiling said NORSE Atlantic Airways was ready to commence the partnership with Air Peace when the final authorisation is granted to the airline for the commencement of direct flights into Gatwick Airport, London.
“Since securing its authorisation to fly into the UK, after satisfying all the requirements, the issue of slot allocation at Gatwick Airport has been the major obstacle preventing the Airline from commencing the direct flight into London,” the statement read.
