Enugu Air Secures Approval for Lagos-London Gatwick Route
Enugu Air has received approval to operate flights between Lagos and London Gatwick through a strategic partnership with Omni-Blu Aviation (OBA), marking another step in the airline’s plans to expand into international operations.
The airline announced the development in a statement issued on Thursday, November 5, 2026.
The approval is expected to improve air connectivity between Nigeria and the United Kingdom and create additional opportunities for international travel.
Enugu Air described the development as an important milestone in its growth, noting that its partnership with Omni-Blu Aviation would support its expansion into the international aviation market.
The airline also acknowledged the support of Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, whose administration it credited with providing leadership towards strengthening the state’s international connectivity.
It further appreciated its partners, stakeholders and supporters for their contributions to the airline’s development.
However, Enugu Air has not provided further operational details about the proposed service. Information concerning the aircraft to be used, flight frequency, ticket prices and commencement date is yet to be announced.
The airline said details about flight schedules, bookings and the start of operations would be communicated through its official channels in due course.
Enugu Air’s Development Since 2025
Enugu Air commenced commercial operations on July 7, 2025, under an interim authorisation from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). At the time, XEJet served as its operational partner, providing aircraft and operational support while the airline completed its Air Operator Certificate process.
The airline began operations with three Embraer 170 aircraft, each with an estimated seating capacity of 76 passengers. Its initial domestic routes included Enugu-Abuja and Enugu-Lagos.
On March 10, 2026, Enugu Air received its Air Operator Certificate from the NCAA, allowing it to operate scheduled flights under its own certification.
The latest approval for the Lagos-London Gatwick route represents another step in its expansion beyond Nigeria’s domestic aviation market.
Air Peace’s Operations Between Nigeria and the UK
Air Peace is currently the only Nigerian airline operating scheduled direct passenger flights to the United Kingdom.
The airline launched its Lagos-London Gatwick service on March 30, 2024, after facing difficulties securing a landing slot at Heathrow Airport.
It later expanded its UK operations to include direct flights between Abuja and London Heathrow, which commenced on October 26, 2025.
The Federal Government had earlier announced in June 2025 that it secured a Heathrow landing slot for Air Peace following diplomatic discussions with the United Kingdom under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement.
Enugu Air’s proposed Lagos-London Gatwick service could introduce another Nigerian airline into the UK market. However, its entry will depend on the operational arrangements with Omni-Blu Aviation and the completion of the necessary regulatory requirements.
