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 were guilty of alcohol and cannabis abuse, which led to an incident on 13 July 2025 when the plane skidded into the bush at Obafemi Awolowo International Airport in Port‑Harcourt, Rivers State.
Air Peace clarified that the captain of the affected flight was grounded and relieved of further flight duty because he failed to adhere to Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles, not because of any alleged substance abuse. The airline said it was unaware of any findings of alcohol or cannabis use by the pilots and crew, as the NSIB report alleged. The incident occurred after the captain disregarded standard go‑around procedures despite being advised by the co‑pilot to do so. Consequently, the captain was suspended, while the co‑pilot was retained and later cleared by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to resume flying duties. Air Peace noted that if the co‑pilot had been involved in substance abuse, the NCAA would not have permitted his return to duty.
The airline emphasized its commitment to safety, announcing that it will increase the frequency of alcohol and drug tests for its crew and implement stricter fitness‑for‑duty checks. It also highlighted the importance of enhanced Crew Resource Management training, which it believes could have prevented the incident. Air Peace reassured passengers and the public that safety will never be compromised, citing its strong safety record and adherence to global best practices.
The NSIB report underscores the importance of investigation and transparency in ensuring aviation safety. As the investigation continues, Air Peace’s response demonstrates its dedication to addressing the issues raised and preventing similar incidents in the future. Maintaining a focus on safety and regulatory compliance is crucial for preserving public trust and upholding the highest standards of aviation practice.
Comments are closed for this story.