Nigeria’s aviation industry is set for a major leap forward as United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) prepares to begin international operations, while Air Peace expands its global footprint with newly acquired landing slots at London’s Heathrow Airport.
United Nigeria Airlines, a private carrier founded in 2020 and based in Enugu, has announced plans to commence international flights from August 25, 2025. The airline, which currently operates domestic routes across nine Nigerian cities, will launch scheduled services to the United Kingdom, United States, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Ghana, and Senegal.
The development follows a strategic partnership between the airline and Sabre, a global distribution technology company. This agreement enables travel agents around the world to access United Nigeria Airlines’ fares and inventory, positioning the carrier for broader global visibility and commercial reach.
“This partnership marks a key milestone in our growth strategy,” said Osita Okonkwo, Chief Operating Officer of United Nigeria Airlines. “It allows us to connect with global markets and offer seamless access to our new international routes.”
Currently, UNA operates a fleet of six aircraft, including Embraer ERJ-145 jets, serving cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Owerri, Asaba, Yenagoa, Warri, and Sokoto.
Meanwhile, Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, has secured highly sought-after air slots at Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom. The slots will support the launch of direct flights between Abuja and London Heathrow, scheduled to begin on October 26, 2025, with four weekly services.
Air Peace had previously launched its London operations in March 2024 via Gatwick Airport. The move to Heathrow marks a major milestone for the airline, offering greater convenience and prestige. The development is being hailed as a testament to the airline’s international safety and operational standards.
Air Peace Chairman, Allen Onyema, commended the Nigerian government for its support, particularly President Bola Tinubu and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, describing the slot acquisition as “a historic achievement for indigenous aviation.”
In addition to the London expansion, Air Peace is also preparing to launch new routes to Guangzhou, China, and Antigua & Barbuda in the coming months. These routes will be supported by the addition of a fourth Boeing 777 aircraft to its wide-body fleet.
With these developments, both United Nigeria Airlines and Air Peace are poised to significantly enhance Nigeria’s global air connectivity, offering travellers expanded options and reinforcing the country’s position in the international aviation market.
