Air Peace Attributes Flight Delays to Harmattan Haze, Ensures Passenger Safety

Air Peace has explained recent flight delays were caused by Harmattan conditions, which reduced visibility at some airports. The airline apologized for disruptions and stressed that schedule adjustments prioritize passenger safety. A December incident involving a damaged Embraer E2 jet by a ground handler also caused multi-route delays. Despite challenges, Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to safe, responsible operations while urging passengers to understand that safety remains its top priority.

#AirPeace #FlightDelays #HarmattanNigeria

Air Peace to Refund Stranded Lagos–Jamaica Passengers Following NCAA Intervention

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced that Air Peace has agreed to refund passengers affected by the Lagos–Jamaica travel disruption that left several stranded and deported from Barbados.

Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, explained that the issue began during passenger profiling at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where some travelers lacked the required documents for the Lagos–Antigua–Jamaica flight. While 67 passengers were allowed entry into Jamaica, 25 were stopped by immigration for lacking onward tickets, proof of funds, or valid accommodation details.

Air Peace offered refunds initially, but passengers opted to travel to Barbados, a visa-free destination, before returning to Nigeria. Achimugu said the NCAA mediated the dispute, and the airline agreed to issue refunds as a goodwill gesture, while regulatory review and potential sanctions remain ongoing.

The resolution aims to protect the aviation industry’s reputation while ensuring passengers’ rights are upheld.

Air Peace CEO Warns New Tax Law Could Push Nigerian Domestic Flight Fares to ₦1 Million

Air Peace CEO Allen Onyema has raised alarms over Nigeria’s new tax provisions, warning they could push domestic flight fares beyond ₦1 million and threaten airline operations. Speaking on ARISE NEWS, Onyema explained that cumulative levies—including VAT on aircraft and spare parts, and NCAA charges—are straining airlines’ finances, with only a fraction of ticket revenue reaching operators. He called for urgent government intervention to prevent sector collapse, stressing that implementing the new tax framework could force airlines to pass high costs to passengers, potentially crippling Nigeria’s aviation industry and impacting the wider economy.

Air Peace Chairman Defends Christmas Airfares, Says Nigerian Airlines Unfairly Demonised Over Southeast Flight Costs

The Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has rejected claims that Nigerian airlines exploited passengers with high airfares during the Christmas season, insisting that entry fares still start from ₦150,000. Speaking amid public outrage and regulatory scrutiny, Onyema said airlines are being unfairly accused of price fixing, especially on Southeast routes where return flights are often nearly empty. He explained that high operational costs, wet-lease charges, taxes, and demand-driven pricing account for fare differences, stressing that most of the ticket revenue does not go directly to airlines. Onyema urged government agencies and the public to stop scapegoating airlines, describing the criticism as unfair and damaging to the aviation sector.

Nigerians Pay the Cheapest Domestic Air Fares Globally – Air Peace CEO, Onyema

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has said that domestic air travellers in Nigeria are paying the cheapest air fares in the world.

Onyema made the assertion on Sunday during an interview on Arise Television, monitored by DAILY POST, while responding to widespread complaints over the rising cost of air travel in the country.

According to him, despite public perception, local flight tickets in Nigeria remain significantly cheaper when compared to fares in other parts of the world.

“Nigerians are paying the cheapest domestic air fares in the world,” Onyema said.

He explained that passengers abroad pay far more for similar travel durations, adding, “A one-hour flight costs over $400 abroad, but in Nigeria, we still have tickets for N125,000, which is less than $60.”

The Air Peace boss attributed the frequent collapse of airlines in the country to the inability of operators to cover costs under the current fare structure.

“This is why the mortality rate of airlines in Nigeria is very high; over 80 airlines have come and gone. They should allow airlines to breathe,” he said.

Air Peace Resumes Daily Ibadan–Abuja Flights from December 24, Offers Tickets from ₦95,000 to Boost Festive Travel

Air Peace has announced the resumption of daily commercial flights between Ibadan and Abuja starting December 24, 2025, following the reopening of Ibadan Airport to full operations. The airline said fares will start from ₦95,000, providing travelers with a safer, faster, and more convenient alternative to long road trips during the festive period. The service renewal is part of Air Peace’s ongoing domestic expansion, which includes restoring suspended routes, increasing flight frequencies, and adding new aircraft to its fleet. The company recently received its third Embraer 190 aircraft to enhance schedule reliability and service efficiency. Air Peace described the Ibadan–Abuja route as strategic for linking major cities and boosting regional connectivity. The airline encouraged early booking through its website and mobile app to enjoy introductory fares.

Passengers Pray Fervently as Air Peace London–Abuja Flight Hits Turbulence, Viral Video Sparks Mixed Reactions

A viral video showing frightened passengers praying during turbulence aboard an Air Peace flight from London to Abuja has sparked widespread reactions on social media. The clip, shared on TikTok by a female passenger, captured moments of panic as passengers screamed, prayed and called on God for safety amid the mid-air turbulence. The woman who posted the video admitted that many onboard believed the aircraft would crash, joking that she feared missing her first “Detty December.” The footage has since amassed over half a million views, with Nigerians online expressing mixed opinions—some empathising with the fear, while others downplayed the incident as normal turbulence and praised the pilot’s professionalism.

Air Peace Flight Grounded After Conveyor Belt Damages Engine Cover, Disrupts Operations On Nine Routes — NCAA

Operations on an Air Peace flight were severely disrupted after a ground handler’s conveyor belt struck and damaged the aircraft’s engine cover while passengers were already on board, forcing an unscheduled deboarding and widespread delays. The incident, confirmed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, rendered the aircraft unsafe to continue operations. The affected plane, a newly acquired Embraer E2 jet, had been scheduled to operate nine sectors and was fully booked until January 15, 2026, meaning all passengers on those routes faced delays or cancellations. Achimugu explained that despite the damage being caused by a third-party service provider, airlines often bear passenger anger, financial losses, regulatory sanctions, refund obligations, and costly foreign repairs. He stressed the need for stricter regulation and accountability for ground handling services, transparency in informing passengers about the true causes of disruptions, and stronger sanctions against negligent service providers to protect airlines and restore confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

FCCPC Expands Probe Into Alleged Exploitative Airfares on Nigerian Domestic Routes

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has expanded its investigation into domestic airline pricing after widespread public complaints about sharp and possibly coordinated airfare increases, especially on South-East and South-South routes ahead of the festive season. The probe, which covers multiple operators, aims to determine whether airlines violated the FCCPA 2018 through excessive, opaque, or anti-competitive pricing practices. The Commission clarified it does not control prices but is mandated to act against consumer exploitation. Despite an ongoing lawsuit from Air Peace seeking to halt the inquiry, FCCPC says its investigation will continue, with enforcement actions to follow if breaches are confirmed.

Ibom Air Flight Aborts Lagos Landing, Returns to Abuja Due to Bad Weather

An Ibom Air flight travelling from Abuja to Lagos on Thursday was forced to return to the capital after severe weather conditions made landing impossible. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who was on board, said the aircraft hovered over Lagos for about 30 minutes before the captain diverted back to Abuja. Passengers spent roughly two hours in the air before landing safely.
The airline has not issued an official statement yet, though weather-related disruptions have recently affected multiple Nigerian airlines, including Air Peace, which previously announced delays due to heavy rainfall in Lagos and Port Harcourt. Airlines continue to emphasise safety as their top priority amid recurring adverse weather patterns nationwide.

Uganda Airlines Launches Cheaper Nigeria Flights to Compete With Air Peace, Arik and Others

Uganda Airlines has officially commenced flight operations in Nigeria, beginning with Lagos and expanding to Abuja and Kano, promising cheaper fares and faster connectivity between West and East Africa. The airline’s inaugural flight landed at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport two decades after Nigeria and Uganda signed their BASA agreement.

With three weekly flights now approved, the Ugandan carrier reduces travel time between both countries from 10 hours to just three and a half. Aviation stakeholders say the entry of Uganda Airlines will boost competition, lower ticket prices, and provide easier connections to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Nigeria’s Ministry of Aviation also confirmed new route approvals as the country continues attracting more foreign airlines despite industry challenges.

Air Peace CEO Warns New 2026 Tax Law Will Cripple Nigerian Airline

Air Peace Chairman and AON leader, Allen Onyema, has warned that the proposed tax law scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, will devastate Nigeria’s aviation industry if implemented. Speaking at the 100 years of Aviation celebration in Abuja, Onyema said the sector—already struggling—would “crumble” under the new tax regime and urged the National Assembly and President Tinubu to intervene.
He praised the current administration’s support for the aviation sector but stressed that multiple taxes remain a major burden on airlines. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo also honoured industry veterans at the event, acknowledging past contributions and pledging continued reforms.

PBAT's Aviation Masterstroke: The MRO Deal That Puts Nigeria on the Global Map

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just pulled off one of the most transformative moves in Nigeria’s aviation history, a strategic partnership with global aerospace giant Boeing and the UK’s prestigious Cranfield University to establish a world-class Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) hub right here in Nigeria.

This is not just another government announcement. It’s a structural shift that changes how the world views Nigeria’s aviation capacity.

1. Billions Saved, Billions Earned

Right now, Nigerian airlines spend billions of naira every year flying their aircraft abroad for routine maintenance. With this facility in Nigeria, that money stays in the economy, and foreign airlines may even start coming to us for servicing.
This means massive savings, fresh revenue streams, and a stronger naira over time.

2. Thousands of High-Value Jobs

MROs are labour-intensive and highly technical. From aeronautical engineers to technicians and software specialists to safety experts, this hub will create thousands of well-paid, specialised jobs for Nigerians. President Tinubu isn’t just creating jobs; he’s creating global-standard careers.

3. Skills That Match Global Standards

Partnering with Cranfield University, one of the world’s leading aviation and aerospace institutions, means Nigerian professionals will receive elite training. For the first time, Nigeria will train and export aviation talent at the level of Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

4. A Boost for Local Airlines

Air Peace, Ibom Air, Azman, Overland all Nigerian airlines will finally have affordable, quick-turnaround maintenance at home. This translates to cheaper operations, fewer grounded aircraft, better safety, and more flights for Nigerians.

5. Nigeria Becomes Africa’s Aviation Powerhouse

Only a few African countries have credible MRO facilities. With Boeing and Cranfield backing this project, Nigeria leapfrogs into continental leadership, attracting investment, partnerships, and global aviation traffic.

6. Proof of President Tinubu’s Economic Diplomacy Working

This partnership didn’t fall from the sky; it’s a direct result of Tinubu’s aggressive economic diplomacy, restoring investor confidence, strengthening international ties, and positioning Nigeria as a serious business destination again.

In simple terms:
This MRO project is a high-impact, high-value, globally recognised move that boosts jobs, strengthens airlines, saves foreign exchange, and establishes Nigeria as the aviation hub Africa has been waiting for, all under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s watch.

"FG Set to Ban Foreign Airlines from Selling Tickets in Dollars" — NANTA President.

The Federal Government is set to put an end to the sale of airline tickets in foreign currency by international carriers, according to Yinka Folami, President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).

Speaking during a cultural and tourism programme in Lagos over the weekend, Folami described the practice of cross-border foreign currency trading as “a crime against the economy.”

“Those of us in the aviation sector know that until Nigeria has a strong national carrier to fill the gap, these issues will continue. I am pleased to inform Nigerians that the government is actively addressing the sale of tickets in foreign currency, and this is the latest update,” he said.

He emphasized that foreign airlines selling tickets in dollars violates regulations and adds pressure on the naira and the country’s foreign exchange reserves. Folami noted that the government is responding to concerns raised by travel agencies over this persistent challenge.

The NANTA president further stated that there is no longer any justification for selling tickets in foreign currency in Nigeria, calling the practice outdated and predicting that it will soon be phased out from the country’s aviation industry.

He also highlighted the importance of a strong domestic airline, urging Nigerians to support Air Peace. “The airline has taken bold steps by launching London routes from Lagos and Abuja. It is both a patriotic duty and a responsibility for Nigerians to support and pray for the airline’s continued success and sustainability,” Folami added.

ADC Candidate John Nwosu Blasts Governor Soludo Over Insecurity Ahead of Anambra Polls

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate for the November 8 Anambra State election, John Nwosu, has criticized incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo, accusing him of failing the people during his tenure.

Speaking on ‘Prime Time’ on Arise Television, Nwosu highlighted that four years in office is crucial for a state’s progress and said Soludo’s administration has fallen short.

“The indices are there for everyone to see, starting with insecurity. In the last three and a half years, Anambra has lost people to kidnappings,” he stated.



He cited Ihiala Local Government, home to the owner of Air Peace, as a stark example:

“That area has been ravaged by insecurity for over three years. Residents have been forced to hold weddings and burials outside their hometown because they cannot return safely,” Nwosu added.


The statement underscores growing concerns about security and governance as Anambra prepares for its upcoming gubernatorial election.

NDLEA arrests Pretty Mike, others during drug party in Lagos.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in the early hours of Sunday 26th October, 2025, raided Proxy Night club at 7 Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island, where a drug party was going on.

Over 100 suspects including the owner of the club, Mike Eze Nwalie Nwogu, alias Pretty Mike, were arrested and taken into custody for screening.

Cartons of illicit substances including Loud, and laughing gas, were recovered from suspects at the party and the club’s store.

A statement released by the NDLEA said the raid followed intelligence about the drug party.

NDLEA operatives who were embedded in the party between 11:00 pm on Saturday 25th October however disrupted the gathering at 3:00 am on Sunday 26th October based on Standard Operating Procedures, SOPs.

A total of 70 parcels of cocaine factory packed in walls of cocoa butter formula body cream containers heading to London, United Kingdom have been uncovered at the export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja Lagos by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, with three suspects arrested in series of follow-up operations across Lagos.

The cocaine consignments weighing 3.60 kilograms were discovered on 14th October 2025 during examination of cargoes packaged as personal effects going to London, UK on an Air Peace flight.

A cargo agent Lawal Mustapha Olakunle who presented the consignment for airfreight was promptly arrested while investigations stretching into two weeks led to the arrest of two principal suspects linked to the attempt to export the concealed Class A drug to the UK.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu Alleges Some Nigerian Pilots Smoke Indian Hemp Before Flights, Calls for Urgent Regulatory Action.

Former Abia State governor and Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, has sparked concern over alleged drug use among Nigerian pilots, claiming that some smoke Indian hemp before flying passengers.

Speaking during Wednesday’s plenary session, Kalu urged aviation regulators to take immediate action to safeguard travelers, accusing agencies of negligence and poor oversight.
“The agencies overseeing these pilots are not doing enough. I’ve personally refused to board a flight because the pilot didn’t seem normal. Some of them smoke Indian hemp yes, it’s true,” he said.

He faulted aviation authorities such as the NCAA and NEMA for failing to conduct proper medical and drug assessments. “Pilots walk into the cockpit without anyone checking their blood pressure or drug level. There’s no on-the-spot testing. It’s dangerous,” he warned.

Kalu recounted once stopping a flight over concerns about a pilot’s condition and urged the Minister of Aviation to step up supervision. “Some take Indian hemp like cigarettes. If you go close, you can smell it,” he alleged.

His remarks come weeks after the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) reportedly said two Air Peace pilots tested positive for alcoqAzqdqazqhol and cannabis following a July 2025 runway incident at Port Harcourt International Airport.

Air Peace, however, dismissed the claim, saying no crew member tested positive and that the airline enforces a zero-tolerance policy on substance use. “Our crew were tested within an hour, and all results were negative,” the airline stated.

Two Air Peace Pilots Test Positive For Alcohol, Cannabis After Port Harcourt Landing Mishap

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that two Air Peace pilots tested positive for alcohol and cannabis following a runway excursion at Port Harcourt International Airport on July 13, 2025.

A preliminary accident report, signed by NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, revealed that the Boeing 737 aircraft, operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt with 103 passengers on board, veered off Runway 21 after landing from an unstabilised approach.

The aircraft touched down 2,264 metres beyond the runway threshold and came to a stop 209 metres into the clearway.

Although no injuries or structural damage were recorded, the NSIB has launched a full investigation into the incident due to its serious safety implications.

According to the report, toxicological tests revealed that both the Captain and First Officer had recently consumed alcohol. Post-incident screenings returned positive results for Ethyl Glucuronide, a metabolic marker indicating recent alcohol intake.

Source: NSIB Preliminary Report

#AirPeace #AviationSafety #NSIB

Air Peace Aircraft Skids Off Runway in Port Harcourt.

Air Peace has confirmed that one of its aircraft, operating Flight P47190 from Lagos, experienced a runway excursion while landing at the Port Harcourt International Airport.

According to a statement by the airline’s spokesperson, Osifo-Whiskey Efe, the aircraft slightly veered off the runway but was not d@maged. All passengers disembarked safely and without panic, and no inj¥ries were recorded.

“Air Peace confirms that its Flight P47190, operating from Lagos to Port Harcourt this morning, had a runway excursion after a safe landing at Port Harcourt International Airport. The aircraft veered slightly off the runway without any damage. All passengers disembarked safely and calmly, and no inj¥ries were reported,” the statement said.

The airline emphasized its unwavering commitment to passenger safety and maintaining the highest operational standards.

FCCPC summons Air Peace over 'non-refunds' for cancelled flights