Air Peace has explained the circumstances behind flight disruptions at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, which left passengers stranded and triggered protests captured in videos circulating on social media.
The airline said the disruptions began after the airport experienced a shortage of Jet A1 aviation fuel, affecting its operations as well as those of other carriers operating from the nation’s capital.
In a statement issued by its management, Air Peace said flights affected by the fuel shortage began departing after supplies became available, but its Abuja-Maiduguri service subsequently encountered another operational hurdle and could not take off as scheduled.
According to the airline, an extension had initially been granted to enable the Maiduguri-bound flight to operate despite the delay. However, by the time the aircraft was ready for boarding, prevailing Visual Flight Rules conditions meant the extension could no longer be utilised because the flight could not operate beyond sunset.
The development forced the airline to cancel the service, further extending the disruption experienced by passengers.
Air Peace said passengers were kept informed as the delays unfolded and provided with refreshments while awaiting further information on their flights.
It added that following the cancellation of the Abuja-Maiduguri service, affected passengers were provided with hotel accommodation, while arrangements were made to operate the flight the following day.
The airline expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the disruptions and thanked passengers for their patience and understanding.
“We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to our esteemed passengers and appreciate their patience and understanding,” the management said.
Air Peace maintained that passenger safety and wellbeing remained paramount, stressing that operational decisions would continue to be guided by safety considerations even where they resulted in delays or cancellations.
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