Air Peace Limited has categorically refuted a recent publication alleging that the airline sold tickets to Jamaica and subsequently “dumped” passengers in Barbados, describing the report as false, misleading, and a misrepresentation of the facts.
The airline states unequivocally that all tickets were sold in full compliance with international airline sales practices and applicable aviation regulations. At no time did Air Peace engage in deceptive practices or mislead passengers regarding their itineraries.
During routine pre-departure profiling and documentation checks at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, it was discovered that some passengers lacked the requisite transit visas to travel through Antigua en route to their final destinations, including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago. In strict adherence to regulatory requirements, Air Peace promptly offered the affected passengers a full refund of their tickets.
While some passengers accepted the refund option, others voluntarily requested to be rerouted through Barbados, noting that Nigerian passport holders do not require transit visas when travelling through Barbados to Jamaica and other destinations. Acting solely on these voluntary requests, Air Peace facilitated the rerouting. In total, 42 passengers expressly opted to have their tickets rerouted through Barbados. No passenger was forced, coerced, or compelled to travel to Barbados.
Due to an unforeseen operational delay, the passengers arrived in Barbados later than scheduled and missed their onward connections. Regrettably, the onward tickets purchased by the passengers were not honoured by the airline they intended to continue their journey with, leaving them stranded in Barbados.
Additionally, some passengers who attempted to secure hotel accommodation using credit cards had their transactions declined, resulting in the absence of confirmed lodging. Barbados immigration authorities also raised concerns about certain passengers whose return tickets indicated a departure date of 31 December 2025, implying an extended stay without clear evidence of means or arrangements.
These issues fell squarely within the purview of the Barbados immigration authorities, who exercised their sovereign responsibility to assess each passenger individually on a case-by-case basis—an area beyond Air Peace’s control or obligation.
It is noteworthy that 67 passengers from the same group were granted entry into Barbados and allowed to continue their journeys, while 25 passengers were denied entry based on the concerns identified by immigration authorities.
Air Peace reiterates that it did not abandon, dump, or deliberately inconvenience any passenger. Throughout the process, the airline acted responsibly and in good faith by offering refunds, facilitating voluntary rerouting at passengers’ request, providing on-ground assistance, and ensuring the safe return of affected passengers.
The airline remains steadfast in its commitment to professionalism, regulatory compliance, and customer care. Air Peace also urges responsible journalism and encourages media organisations to verify facts with relevant stakeholders before publishing reports that may misinform the public.