Joy as Air Peace honours Abia’s first female flyer

History was made in Umuerim Umukparo, Mbala community of Umunneochi Local Government Area in Abia State, as Gold Chinyere Ike became the first woman from the village to board an airplane, a feat that has now earned her a national spotlight and recognition from leading Nigerian airline, Air Peace.

Chinyere, a graduate of Nursing from Abia State University and a thriving entrepreneurial farmer, shared her experience online after flying with Air Peace. The post went viral.

“When we were on air, I could see the sky differently,” she said with wonder. “Down here, we look up to the sky. But when you’re flying, it’s almost like the sky is beneath you.”

Chinyere recalled how, as a child, she imagined planes were throwing down gifts during festive seasons. That fantasy had now become reality, not just for her, but for her entire community.

Moved by her story, the Air Peace Corporate Communications team traveled to Mbala to honour her achievement.

The team was welcomed with joy, traditional Egede dancers, drummers, and elated townspeople flooded the roads in celebration.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” Chinyere said, emotionally overwhelmed. “That you people came to my village just because of me… I’m grateful. The community is so happy.”

The airline presented her with two complimentary return Economy tickets to any local destination of her choice, as well as branded souvenirs.

In a message delivered on behalf of Chairman and CEO, Dr. Allen Onyema, the airline noted:

“Ms. Gold Chinyere Ike’s journey represents exactly why we do what we do. Air Peace was founded not only to provide safe and affordable air travel, but to make flying accessible to everyday Nigerians—women, men, young people—regardless of their background. We believe that when people move, dreams move with them.”

Chinyere, visibly moved, expressed her heartfelt appreciation. “I never expected this,” she said, smiling through tears. “Air Peace is the biggest—not just in Africa, but worldwide.”

When asked about her dream destinations, she eagerly responded: “Lagos again, and Abuja—I’ve never been there before.”

Her proud father, a regular flyer with Air Peace, shared his excitement.

“I always loved flying Air Peace, and when it was time for my daughter to travel, I insisted she fly with them,” he said.

Her mother, equally emotional, extended thanks to the airline and its founder. “For you to come here, to honour our daughter, it means so much. We thank Dr. Onyema, and we thank God for journey mercies.”