Air Peace has responded to media reports surrounding the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau’s (NSIB) preliminary report on the July 13, 2025, incident involving one of its aircraft at Port Harcourt International Airport, alleging no communication from the investigation bureau.
The airline in a statement issued about an hour ago said it was yet to receive any official communications from the NSIB on such findings over a month after the incident and after the testing of the crew for alcohol which took place in less than an hour of the incident.
It also stressed its commitment to unwavering safety, adding that actions have been taking again last the offending crew members
No Official Communication Received
The airline claims it has not received any official communication from NSIB regarding the preliminary report’s findings, despite the report circulating online. Air Peace emphasises its commitment to safety, transparency, and compliance.
Strict Alcohol and Drug Policy
Air Peace highlighted its strict alcohol use policy, which exceeds regulatory requirements, and its zero-tolerance stance on drug use. The airline conducts frequent alcohol and drug tests on its crew members.
*As a responsible airline, we place utmost priority on safety, transparency, and compliance, and it is important to set the record straight.
“Air Peace conducts frequent alcohol and drug tests on our crew. We have a very strict alcohol use policy that is stricter than the 8 hours before the flight as provided in the regulations. Drug use is a NO-NO”! the statement read.
Action Taken Against Captain
The captain of the affected flight was grounded for failing to adhere to Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles and disregarding standard go-around procedures. However, Air Peace clarified that this decision was not based on a positive breathalyzer test result, as NSIB has not shared the results with them.
First Officer Reinstated
The co-pilot, who demonstrated professionalism by calling for a go-around, according to the airline has been reinstated into active flying duties with Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) approval.
“The captain of the affected flight was grounded and relieved from further flight duty till date for failure to adhere to Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles and for disregarding standard go-around procedures as advised by his co-pilot but not for testing positive to breathalyser test as the result was not communicated to us by NSIB to date.
“Contrary to reports in the media, the First Officer (Co-pilot), who demonstrated professionalism in calling for a go-around to his captain, has been reinstated into active flying duties, with full approval from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
“The NCAA cleared him. If he was involved in drug or alcohol use, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority would not have cleared him to resume flight duties”, the statement declared.
Safety Measures
Air Peace assures that it will intensify strict Fitness-for-Duty checks and internal monitoring to prevent breaches of its safety policy. The airline said it maintains a strong safety record, adhering to global best practices, and reassures passengers and the public that safety will never be compromised.
Next Steps
If confirmed that the captain tested positive for alcohol, Air Peace said it would increase the frequency of its alcohol and drug tests on crew members. “The airline remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards”, the statement maintained.