Commercial Aviation
Air Peace Expands Nigeria Aviation with Fourth Boeing 777 Aircraft
Air Peace acquires its fourth Boeing 777 to launch new international routes, enhancing Nigeria’s aviation connectivity and economic impact.
Nigeria’s largest airline, Air Peace, has significantly bolstered its international expansion capabilities with the addition of its fourth Boeing 777 aircraft, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s aviation sector transformation. The wide-body Boeing 777-200ER, bearing registration 5N-CEG, arrived at Lagos’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport on August 22, 2025, from Teruel, Spain, and is configured with 312 seats including 26 business class and 286 economy class seats. This strategic acquisition positions Air Peace to launch new routes across Europe, South America, and the Caribbean, with immediate plans to commence Abuja-London Heathrow operations by October 26, 2025, alongside existing London Gatwick services. The airline’s expansion comes at a crucial time when Nigeria’s aviation sector contributes approximately $1.7 billion to the country’s GDP, with over 16 million domestic passengers and 3.5 million international passengers traversing Nigerian terminals annually.
The arrival of this new aircraft not only amplifies Air Peace’s operational capacity but also underscores a broader industry shift within Nigeria. With the country’s aviation sector historically reliant on foreign carriers for international connectivity, the strengthening of indigenous airlines like Air Peace signals a move toward greater self-reliance, economic empowerment, and improved access for Nigerian travelers.
This development is particularly significant given the competitive pressures in international aviation, the ongoing need for foreign exchange conservation, and the Nigerian government’s policy focus on supporting domestic carriers. The addition of the Boeing 777 is both a symbol and a tool for Nigeria’s aspirations to become a regional aviation hub.
Air Peace was founded in 2013 by Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, a lawyer and entrepreneur with a vision that transcended profit. The airline’s mission has been to create employment opportunities for Nigerians and promote peace and unity through enhanced connectivity. Official operations began in 2014, though planning and groundwork started as early as 2007, reflecting a long-term commitment to transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
Allen Onyema’s background in law and business, including his education at the University of Ibadan and subsequent admittance to the Nigerian Bar, provided the foundation for his strategic approach to airline management. Early in his career, Onyema demonstrated leadership as Head of Chambers at Nwizugbo & Co., skills that later translated into his aviation entrepreneurship journey.
From modest beginnings, Air Peace has grown to become Nigeria’s largest carrier, expanding its fleet and route network to include major Nigerian cities and international destinations such as Senegal, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana, the United Arab Emirates, India, China, and the United States. The airline’s reputation for safety, reliability, and customer service has helped build trust among Nigerian travelers and positioned it as a key player in the nation’s aviation sector.
Air Peace’s fourth Boeing 777-200ER, christened “Chinonso Onyema,” touched down in Lagos on August 22, 2025, and was received with a ceremonial water-cannon salute. This aircraft features a two-class configuration: 26 business class seats and 286 economy class seats, providing a blend of premium comfort and high passenger capacity. Business class passengers benefit from private ambient seating and advanced inflight comfort systems, while economy class offers generous legroom and refined amenities.
The financial commitment for acquiring a Boeing 777-200ER is substantial, with a list price of $306.6 million. However, industry norms typically allow for negotiated discounts, especially for bulk orders or favorable financing. Even with such discounts, the investment signals Air Peace’s confidence in demand for international travel and its readiness to compete on long-haul routes. The 777-200ER’s extended range, capable of flying over 7,000 nautical miles, enables Air Peace to serve far-reaching destinations such as London, São Paulo, and Caribbean islands directly from Nigeria. This capability is central to the airline’s international ambitions, allowing for non-stop services that are attractive to both business and leisure travelers.
“The arrival of this aircraft marks a new chapter for Nigerian aviation, offering the capacity and reach to connect Nigeria directly with key global markets.” — Air Peace Management
The immediate focus of Air Peace’s expansion is the United Kingdom, where it will become the first Nigerian airline to offer direct services between Abuja and both London Heathrow and Gatwick. Starting October 26, 2025, three weekly flights will connect Abuja to Heathrow, expanding on the airline’s established Lagos-London Gatwick service.
Securing slots at Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest and most competitive airports, was achieved after months of diplomatic negotiation. Nigerian Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo highlighted the effort required to obtain these “coveted” slots, emphasizing the importance of reciprocal rights under bilateral air services agreements.
Beyond the UK, Air Peace is targeting new markets in South America and the Caribbean. Planned routes to São Paulo, Brazil, and scheduled services to Antigua and Barbuda, along with discussions to extend to St. Kitts and Nevis, reflect a bold approach to underserved transatlantic and diaspora markets. These routes are designed to serve not just business and leisure travelers, but also to foster cultural and economic ties across continents.
“Air Peace’s expansion to London Heathrow and beyond is a game-changer, opening up direct access for Nigerians and promoting economic and cultural exchange.” — Aviation Analyst
Air Peace’s international expansion is delivering tangible economic benefits. The Lagos-London route alone has contributed $150 million to Nigeria’s GDP in its first year of operation, reflecting not only direct airline revenues but also broader impacts on tourism, business travel, and trade. The airline has directly created over 4,000 jobs, with the London route adding more than 1,200 positions across aviation, hospitality, and logistics.
Air Peace’s competitive fares have driven international ticket prices down by approximately 40% since its entry into the London market. Economy class tickets that previously cost around N4 million on foreign carriers have dropped to as low as N1 million on Air Peace, making international travel more accessible for a wider demographic.
Supporting indigenous airlines like Air Peace also helps conserve foreign exchange. Foreign airlines have historically repatriated over N500 billion ($1.3 billion) in annual revenues from Nigeria, contributing to capital flight. In contrast, Nigerian carriers keep a larger share of their revenues within the domestic economy, supporting local growth and reducing pressure on foreign reserves.
“Air Peace’s entry has democratized international travel for Nigerians and is helping to retain value within the local economy.” — Industry Commentator
Nigeria’s aviation sector has long faced challenges including high operational costs, limited access to foreign exchange, and infrastructure deficits. Foreign carriers have dominated international routes, generating billions of dollars in annual revenue from Nigerian passengers. However, Air Peace’s growth is beginning to shift this balance, introducing competition that benefits consumers and the local economy. The government has played an active role in supporting indigenous airlines. Policy initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration include efforts to improve access to aircraft financing, negotiate favorable bilateral agreements, and invest in airport infrastructure. Recent upgrades at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, including the commissioning of a new terminal with capacity for 14 million passengers annually, are part of a broader modernization strategy.
Regulatory reforms and diplomatic efforts have also been crucial. The successful negotiation for Heathrow slots and ongoing improvements in safety oversight, such as achieving FAA Category One status, reflect a multi-faceted approach to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“Government support and infrastructure investment are essential for leveling the playing field and enabling Nigerian airlines to compete internationally.” — Festus Keyamo, Aviation Minister
Despite recent successes, Air Peace and other Nigerian carriers face ongoing challenges. High fuel costs, volatile exchange rates, and regulatory compliance requirements create a complex operating environment. The cost of aviation fuel in Nigeria remains a significant burden, and access to foreign exchange for aircraft leases and maintenance remains constrained.
Passenger volumes have also been affected by broader economic pressures, with domestic air travel declining by 13% from the first half of 2022 to the same period in 2023. Rising fares and reduced consumer spending power add to the challenges facing the industry.
Looking ahead, Air Peace’s continued fleet expansion, including future deliveries of Embraer E195-E2s and Boeing 737-8s, suggests a long-term commitment to both international and domestic growth. The competitive landscape is likely to intensify, particularly with the expected return of Emirates Airlines and ongoing fare competition among international carriers.
Air Peace’s acquisition of its fourth Boeing 777 marks a transformative step for Nigerian aviation. By expanding its fleet and launching new international routes, the airline is not only enhancing connectivity for Nigerians but also contributing to economic development, job creation, and foreign exchange conservation. The strategic deployment of the new aircraft on routes to London, South America, and the Caribbean demonstrates a bold vision for Nigeria’s role in global aviation.
Sustaining this progress will require continued government support, infrastructure investment, and effective management of operational challenges. If these conditions are met, Air Peace, and Nigeria’s aviation sector more broadly, could play an increasingly prominent role in connecting Africa to the world and driving national economic growth.
Q: What is the significance of Air Peace acquiring a fourth Boeing 777? Q: Which new routes will Air Peace operate with the new aircraft? Q: How has Air Peace’s expansion affected airfares in Nigeria? Q: What challenges does Air Peace face in its international expansion? Q: How is the Nigerian government supporting indigenous airlines?
Air Peace’s Fourth Boeing 777 Acquisition: Transforming Nigeria’s International Aviation Landscape Through Strategic Fleet Expansion
Background and Foundation of Air Peace
The Fourth Boeing 777 Acquisition: Technical Specifications and Strategic Significance
Route Expansion Strategy: London, South America, and Caribbean Operations
Financial and Economic Impact
Industry Context, Competition, and Government Support
Challenges and Future Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
A: The acquisition expands Air Peace’s capacity for long-haul international routes, allowing it to launch new services to Europe, South America, and the Caribbean, and strengthens Nigeria’s position in international aviation.
A: Air Peace will launch services from Abuja to London Heathrow, expand its London Gatwick operations, and plans direct flights to São Paulo, Brazil, and Caribbean destinations such as Antigua and Barbuda.
A: Air Peace’s entry into the international market, especially on the Lagos-London route, has led to a decrease in airfares by up to 40%, making international travel more affordable for Nigerian passengers.
A: Challenges include high operational costs (especially fuel), limited access to foreign exchange, competitive pressure from established international airlines, and infrastructure constraints.
A: The government is investing in airport infrastructure, negotiating favorable bilateral agreements, implementing regulatory reforms, and supporting access to aircraft financing.
Photo Credit: The Guardian Nigeria News
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Aergo Capital Acquires Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle Leased to WestJet
Aergo Capital acquires a Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle currently leased to WestJet, highlighting active secondary market demand and expanding Aergo’s aviation portfolio.
This article is based on an official press release from Aergo Capital.
Dublin-based aircraft leasing and asset management platform Aergo Capital has announced the acquisition of one Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from Aircastle. The transaction, announced on December 16, 2025, involves an aircraft bearing Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN) 60513, which is currently on lease to Canadian carrier WestJet.
This acquisition marks a continuation of Aergo Capital’s strategy to invest in modern, fuel-efficient narrowbody aircraft. According to the company’s official statement, the deal underscores the active secondary market for the 737 MAX and strengthens the trading relationship between the two major lessors. The aircraft remains in operation with WestJet, ensuring continuity for the airline while transferring asset ownership to Aergo.
The deal highlights the growing collaboration between Aergo Capital and WestJet, following significant transactions earlier in the operational year. By acquiring this asset, Aergo expands its portfolio of liquid, in-demand aviation assets while Aircastle executes its strategy of active portfolio management.
The specific asset involved in the transaction is a Boeing 737 MAX 8, identified by MSN 60513. Fleet data indicates this aircraft operates under the registration C-GRAX. Originally delivered during the initial rollout phase of the MAX program, the aircraft is approximately eight years old and represents the current generation of Boeing’s narrowbody technology.
Fred Browne, Chief Executive Officer of Aergo Capital, emphasized the importance of the acquisition in strengthening ties with both the seller and the lessee. In a statement regarding the deal, Browne noted:
“We are pleased to complete the acquisition of this Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle… I also extend my thanks to WestJet for their continued partnership and support.”
On the seller’s side, Aircastle, a Stamford-based lessor owned by Marubeni Corporation and Mizuho Leasing, viewed the sale as a testament to their strong commercial network. Michael Inglese, CEO of Aircastle, commented on the relationship between the firms:
“We value the long-standing trading relationship we have built with Aergo… The acquisition underscores the strong commercial relationship between Aergo and Aircastle.”
This transaction is not an isolated event but rather part of a deepening relationship between Aergo Capital and WestJet. In August 2024, Aergo completed a significant sale-and-leaseback transaction involving eight Boeing 737-800 aircraft with the Canadian airline. That deal marked the first major collaboration between the two entities. The addition of this 737 MAX 8 further cements Aergo’s position as a key partner in WestJet’s fleet financing structure. For Aircastle, the sale aligns with a strategy of capital recycling and portfolio optimization. Trading assets with leases attached is a common practice in the aircraft leasing industry, allowing lessors to manage age profiles and risk exposure. For WestJet, the transaction represents a “backend” change of lessor; the airline retains physical possession and operational control of the aircraft, merely redirecting lease payments to the new owner, Aergo Capital.
The Secondary Market for the MAX 8
The transfer of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 between two major lessors highlights the intense demand for this asset class in the secondary market. With new aircraft production facing documented delays across the industry, “on-lease” assets, aircraft that are already built, certified, and generating revenue, have become premium commodities.
While an eight-year-old airframe might typically be considered approaching mid-life, the 737 MAX 8 remains a current-generation asset offering approximately 14% better fuel efficiency than its predecessors. For lessors like Aergo Capital, acquiring such an asset avoids the long wait times associated with factory order books. For the industry at large, this trade signals that liquidity for the MAX platform remains robust, despite, or perhaps because of, supply chain constraints limiting the delivery of new metal.
Sources:
Aergo Capital Acquires WestJet-Leased Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle
Transaction Overview and Executive Commentary
Strategic Context and WestJet Partnership
Deepening Ties with WestJet
Asset Liquidity and Market Demand
AirPro News Analysis
Photo Credit: Aergo Capital
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Qanot Sharq Receives First Airbus A321XLR in Central Asia
Qanot Sharq becomes Central Asia’s first operator of the Airbus A321XLR, expanding long-haul routes to North America and Asia from Tashkent.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and Qanot Sharq.
On December 19, 2025, Qanot Sharq, Uzbekistan’s first private airline, officially took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft. The delivery, facilitated through a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), marks a historic milestone for aviation in the region, as Qanot Sharq becomes the launch operator of the A321XLR in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
This aircraft is the first of four confirmed A321XLR units destined for the carrier. According to the official announcement, the airline intends to utilize the aircraft’s extended range to open new long-haul markets that were previously inaccessible to single-aisle jets, including planned services to North America and East Asia.
The newly delivered A321XLR is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and features a two-class layout designed to balance capacity with passenger comfort on longer sectors. The aircraft accommodates a total of 190 passengers.
In addition to the seating configuration, the aircraft is fitted with Airbus’ “Airspace” cabin interior. Key features include customizable LED lighting, lower cabin altitude settings to reduce jet lag, and XL overhead bins that provide 60% more storage capacity compared to previous generation aircraft.
Nosir Abdugafarov, the owner of Qanot Sharq, emphasized the strategic importance of the delivery in a statement regarding the fleet expansion.
“The A321XLR’s exceptional range and efficiency will allow us to offer greater comfort and convenience while maintaining highly competitive operating economics.”
, Nosir Abdugafarov, Owner of Qanot Sharq
The introduction of the A321XLR allows Qanot Sharq to deploy a narrowbody aircraft on routes typically reserved for widebody jets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), the airline plans to connect Tashkent with destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America.
According to the airline’s strategic roadmap, the new fleet will support route expansion to Sanya (China) and Busan (South Korea). Furthermore, the airline has explicitly outlined plans to serve New York (JFK) via Budapest. While the A321XLR has impressive range, the distance between Tashkent and New York (approximately 5,500 nm) necessitates a technical stop. Budapest will serve as this intermediate point, potentially allowing the airline to tap into passenger demand between Central Europe and the United States, subject to regulatory approvals. AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation, noted the geographical advantages available to the airline.
“Qanot Sharq is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of the A321XLR due to its strategic location in Uzbekistan, bridging Europe and Asia.”
, AJ Abedin, SVP Marketing, Air Lease Corporation
The delivery of the A321XLR signals a distinct shift in the competitive landscape of Uzbek aviation. Until now, long-haul flights from Tashkent,specifically to the United States,have been the exclusive domain of the state-owned flag carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, which utilizes Boeing 787 Dreamliners for non-stop service.
By adopting the A321XLR, Qanot Sharq appears to be pursuing a “long-haul low-cost” hybrid model. The A321XLR burns approximately 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation aircraft, allowing the private carrier to operate long routes with significantly lower trip costs than its state-owned competitor. While the one-stop service via Budapest will result in a longer total travel time compared to Uzbekistan Airways’ direct flights, the lower operating costs could allow Qanot Sharq to offer more competitive fares, appealing to price-sensitive travelers and labor migrants.
Furthermore, the choice of Budapest as a stopover is strategic. If Qanot Sharq secures “Fifth Freedom” rights,which are currently a subject of regulatory negotiation,it could monetize the empty seats on the Budapest-New York sector, effectively competing in the transatlantic market while serving its primary base in Central Asia.
Sources: Airbus Press Release, Air Lease Corporation
Qanot Sharq Becomes First Central Asian Operator of Airbus A321XLR
Aircraft Configuration and Capabilities
Strategic Network Expansion
AirPro News Analysis: The Long-Haul Low-Cost Shift
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Airlines Strategy
Kenya Airways Plans Secondary Hub in Accra with Project Kifaru
Kenya Airways advances plans for a secondary hub at Accra’s Kotoka Airport, leveraging partnerships and regional aircraft to boost intra-African connectivity.
This article summarizes reporting by AFRAA and official statements from Kenya Airways.
Kenya Airways (KQ) is moving forward with strategic plans to establish a secondary operational hub at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. According to reporting by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and recent company statements, this initiative represents a critical pillar of “Project Kifaru,” the airlines‘s three-year recovery and growth roadmap.
The proposed expansion aims to deepen intra-African connectivity by positioning Accra as a pivotal node for West African operations. Rather than launching a wholly-owned subsidiary, a model that requires heavy capital expenditure, Kenya Airways intends to utilize a partnership-driven approach, leveraging existing relationships with regional carriers to feed long-haul networks.
While the Kenyan government formally requested permission for the hub in May 2025, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka confirmed in December 2025 that the plan remains under active study. A final decision on the full execution of the project is expected in 2026.
The core of the Accra strategy involves basing aircraft directly in West Africa to serve high-demand regional routes. According to details emerging from the planning phase, Kenya Airways intends to deploy three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft to Kotoka International Airport. These aircraft will facilitate regional connections, feeding passengers into the carrier’s long-haul network and supporting the logistics needs of the region.
This operational shift marks a departure from the traditional “hub-and-spoke” model centered exclusively on Nairobi. By establishing a presence in Ghana, KQ aims to capture traffic in a market currently dominated by competitors such as Ethiopian Airlines (via its ASKY partner in Lomé) and Air Côte d’Ivoire.
A key component of this strategy is the airline’s collaboration with Ghana-based Africa World Airlines (AWA). Kenya Airways signed a codeshare agreement with AWA in May 2022. This partnership allows KQ to connect passengers from its Nairobi-Accra service to AWA’s domestic and regional network, covering destinations like Kumasi, Takoradi, Lagos, and Abuja.
Industry observers note that this “capital-light” model reduces the financial risks associated with starting a new airline from scratch. Instead of competing directly on every thin route, KQ can rely on AWA to provide feed traffic while focusing its own metal on key trunk routes. The push for a West African hub comes as Kenya Airways navigates a complex financial recovery. The airline reported a significant milestone in the 2024 full financial year, posting an operating profit of Ksh 10.5 billion and a net profit of Ksh 5.4 billion, its first profit in 11 years. This resurgence provided the initial confidence to pursue the growth phase of Project Kifaru.
However, the first half of 2025 presented renewed challenges. The airline reported a Ksh 12.2 billion loss for the period, attributed largely to currency volatility and the grounding of its Boeing 787 fleet due to global spare parts shortages. These financial realities underscore the necessity of the proposed low-capital expansion model in Accra.
The strategy focuses on collaboration with existing African carriers rather than creating a new airline from scratch.
, Summary of Kenya Airways’ strategic approach
The viability of the Accra hub relies heavily on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and “Fifth Freedom” rights, which allow an airline to fly between two foreign countries. West Africa has been a leader in implementing these protocols, making Accra a legally feasible location for a secondary hub.
Furthermore, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat is headquartered in Accra. Kenya Airways is positioning itself to support the trade bloc by facilitating the movement of people and cargo between East and West Africa. The airline has already introduced Boeing 737-800 freighters to serve key destinations including Lagos, Dakar, Freetown, and Monrovia.
The decision to delay a final “go/no-go” confirmation until 2026 suggests a prudent approach by Kenya Airways management. While the West African market is lucrative, it is also saturated with aggressive competitors like Air Peace and the well-entrenched ASKY/Ethiopian Airlines alliance. By opting for a partnership model with Africa World Airlines rather than a full subsidiary, KQ avoids the “cash burn” trap that led to the collapse of previous pan-African airline ventures. If successful, this could serve as a blueprint for other mid-sized African carriers looking to expand without overleveraging their balance sheets.
What aircraft will be based in Accra? When will the hub become operational? How does this affect the Nairobi hub?
Kenya Airways Advances Plans for Secondary Hub in Accra Under ‘Project Kifaru’
Operational Strategy: The ‘Mini-Hub’ Model
Partnership with Africa World Airlines
Financial Context and ‘Project Kifaru’
Regulatory Landscape and Competition
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Current plans indicate that Kenya Airways intends to base three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft at Kotoka International Airport.
While planning is underway and government requests have been filed, a final decision on full execution is not expected until 2026.
Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) remains the primary hub. The Accra facility is designed as a secondary node to improve regional connectivity and feed traffic back into the global network.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer – E190
-
Commercial Aviation6 days agoVietnam Grounds 28 Aircraft Amid Pratt & Whitney Engine Shortage
-
Business Aviation3 days agoGreg Biffle and Family Die in North Carolina Plane Crash
-
Defense & Military4 days agoFinland Unveils First F-35A Lightning II under HX Fighter Program
-
Business Aviation2 days agoBombardier Global 8000 Gains FAA Certification as Fastest Business Jet
-
Technology & Innovation19 hours agoJoby Aviation and Metropolis Develop 25 US Vertiports for eVTOL Launch