Air Peace Crisis: Fuel Shortage Grounds Abuja-Maiduguri Flights

Air Peace has addressed recent flight disruptions at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, specifically the cancellation of its Abuja–Maiduguri service, attributing the issues to the unavailability of Jet A1 aviation fuel and subsequent operating restrictions. The airline's clarification came in response to reports and footage circulating in the media and on social media depicting frustrated passengers.

Initially, the airline stated that delays to its Abuja operations were caused by a widespread scarcity of Jet A1 aviation fuel, impacting not only Air Peace but also other carriers operating from the airport. Once fuel became available, affected flights began to operate. However, the Abuja–Maiduguri flight faced a further challenge. Despite an initial extension for the flight, by the time the aircraft was prepared for boarding, prevailing Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions at Maiduguri airport meant the extension was no longer tenable, as the flight could not operate beyond sunset. Visual flight rules generally require pilots to operate under specified visual conditions, relying on sight rather than instrument procedures.

Air Peace confirmed that passengers were kept informed throughout the disruption and provided with refreshments. Following the cancellation of the Abuja–Maiduguri service, affected passengers received hotel accommodation, and arrangements were made to operate the flight the following day. The airline expressed sincere regret for the inconvenience caused and reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and wellbeing as a top priority in its operations.

This incident occurs amidst heightened scrutiny of flight delays and cancellations in Nigeria and how airlines manage passengers during such disruptions. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has established Part 19 regulations, which outline airline obligations to passengers. These include providing refreshments for delays of two hours or more, and for longer disruptions, potentially offering reimbursement, rerouting, accommodation, and compensation under qualifying circumstances. The NCAA consistently emphasizes the importance of timely information and adequate passenger care.

Earlier, the NCAA had directed Air Peace to prepare a compensation package for passengers affected by a delayed Lagos-Enugu flight, after a preliminary investigation found the airline had sent incorrect notifications. According to NCAA data, 7,961 domestic flights operated in August, with 4,765 delayed and 36 cancelled. Air Peace reportedly accounted for 1,330 of these delayed flights. However, the airline disputed these figures, stating it operated 2,564 flights during that month and that only 391 of its delayed flights were due to factors within its operational control.