AerCap, the world’s largest aircraft leasing company, has hailed Air Peace for its financial discipline and integrity, describing the Nigerian carrier as a driving force in rebuilding international trust in the country’s aviation sector.
The commendation came during a ceremony at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos to mark the delivery of a Boeing 737-700 NG aircraft to Air Peace under a dry lease agreement — the first such transaction in over a decade.
Gad Wavomba, AerCap’s Vice President of Leasing, called the event a “historic moment for Nigeria and the region,” emphasising that the deal symbolises renewed faith in the country’s compliance and financial systems.
Wavomba stated that for nearly ten years, Nigeria faced challenges that limited its access to dry leasing due to regulatory and market concerns, noting that this achievement is proof that with transparency, strong partnerships, and effective oversight, global confidence can be restored.
He credited the success of the deal to collaboration among stakeholders, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Irish Civil Aviation Authority, and the Nigerian government, adding that Air Peace’s commitment to accountability was instrumental.
He said, “We owe a lot of thanks to the Nigerian government for their initiatives, the NCAA for facilitating the 83-Bis Agreement, the Irish Civil Aviation Authority, and the Irish Ambassador, who came from Abuja to support this process. But most importantly, we thank Air Peace. They trusted us, worked tirelessly, and demonstrated financial transparency and discipline every step of the way.”
The partnership between AerCap and Air Peace signals a positive shift for Nigerian aviation, potentially opening doors for other indigenous airlines to secure competitive leasing deals and expand their fleets.
For Air Peace, the milestone further cements its reputation as West and Central Africa’s leading carrier and a model for operational excellence. The airline continues to strengthen its regional and international footprint, demonstrating that integrity and strategic vision can transform Nigeria’s aviation narrative.
The renewed collaboration between Nigerian operators and global lessors could boost investment, enhance safety standards, and create more opportunities for employment and growth in the sector.
Melissa Enoch
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