Nigerian airline Air Peace has responded to a report by the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) that criticized the actions of its crew. The NSIB report stated that the pilots and crew of a Boeing 737 aircraft were guilty of alcohol and cannabis abuse, which led to an incident on July 13, 2025, where the plane skidded into the bush at the Obafemi Awolowo International Airport in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State.

According to Air Peace, the captain of the affected flight was grounded and relieved of further flight duty due to failure to adhere to Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles, not due to allegations of substance abuse. The airline claimed it was unaware of any findings of alcohol or cannabis use by the pilots and crew, as the NSIB report alleged.

The incident occurred when the aircraft’s captain disregarded standard go-around procedures, despite being advised by the co-pilot to do so. The captain was subsequently suspended, while the co-pilot was retained and later cleared by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to resume flying duties. Air Peace stated that if the co-pilot had been involved in substance abuse, the NCAA would not have allowed him to return to duty.

The airline emphasized its commitment to safety, stating that it would increase the frequency of alcohol and drug tests for its crew and implement stricter fitness-for-duty checks. Air Peace also underscored the importance of Enhanced Crew Resource Management Training, which it believed could have prevented the incident.

The airline reassured its passengers and the public that safety would never be compromised, citing its strong safety record and adherence to global best practices. Air Peace’s response comes as the aviation industry continues to prioritize safety, and the incident serves as a reminder of the need for strict protocols and rigorous training to prevent such occurrences.

The NSIB report highlights the importance of investigation and transparency in ensuring aviation safety. As the investigation continues, Air Peace’s actions demonstrate its commitment to addressing the issues raised and preventing similar incidents in the future. The airline’s emphasis on safety and adherence to regulations is crucial in maintaining public trust and upholding the highest standards of aviation practice.