A recent incident at Port Harcourt International Airport has raised concerns about aviation safety in Nigeria. On July 13, 2025, an Air Peace Boeing 737 aircraft was involved in a runway excursion, prompting an investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB). The probe revealed that the pilot and co-pilot had tested positive for alcohol and other substances, including THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis.
According to the NSIB report, the crew’s toxicology results showed evidence of recent alcohol consumption, with the captain and first officer testing positive for Ethyl Glucuronide. A cabin crew member also tested positive for THC. The Bureau noted that these findings suggest human performance was a critical factor in the incident.
The aircraft, which was operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt with 103 passengers on board, landed long on Runway 21 after an unstabilized final approach. The plane touched down 2,264 meters from the runway threshold and came to a final stop 209 meters into the clearway. Fortunately, all passengers and crew disembarked safely, and no injuries were reported.
The NSIB recommended that Air Peace strengthen its crew resource management training and tighten checks on pilot fitness before dispatch. The Bureau’s findings highlight the importance of addressing human performance factors in aviation safety. Runway excursions, such as the one that occurred in Port Harcourt, are a common safety risk in commercial aviation, often caused by poor visibility, pilot error, or technical faults.
The incident has significant implications for aviation safety in Nigeria and underscores the need for rigorous safety protocols and regular testing of flight crew. The NSIB’s investigation and recommendations aim to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of passengers and crew. As the investigation continues, the focus will be on implementing measures to mitigate the risks associated with human performance and ensuring that airlines prioritize the safety and well-being of their passengers.
