Air Peace, a prominent Nigerian airline, has announced the suspension of all flights to Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu due to significant safety concerns regarding the deteriorating condition of the airport's runway. This decision, communicated through a statement released by the airline's Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, underscores the airline's commitment to prioritizing passenger safety above all else.

According to the statement, the persistent issues with the Enugu runway have led to substantial disruptions in Air Peace's flight schedules, compelling the airline to temporarily cease operations at the airport. "We regret to inform you that all flights scheduled to Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu are temporarily suspended due to safety concerns," the statement read, emphasizing the critical need for immediate repairs.

Air Peace has expressed confidence that this suspension will provide the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) with the necessary time to conduct comprehensive repairs on the runway. The airline reiterated that safety remains its paramount concern, stating, "At Air Peace, we prioritise Safety first over convenience. We believe that if flights are not operated into this aerodrome for the next few days, it will allow FAAN the opportunity to perform the necessary repairs on the runway."

In the interim, Air Peace has redirected all flights originally scheduled for Enugu to Asaba Airport. The airline has appealed to its passengers for understanding during this period, assuring them that the decision was made in the best interest of public safety. "Please be informed that all flights scheduled into and out of Enugu will now be operated into and out of Asaba airport. We regret any inconvenience this change might have caused," the statement concluded.

In related news, Air Peace recently celebrated the inspiring story of Gold Chinyere Ike, the first woman from Umuerim Umukparo in Mbala, Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, to experience air travel. Her maiden flight with Air Peace has resonated deeply across social media, symbolizing the transformative power of aviation and its ability to inspire dreams and open new horizons.

Chinyere, a nursing graduate from Abia State University and an accomplished entrepreneurial farmer, shared her inaugural flight experience on social media in late March 2025. Her heartfelt post, filled with wonder and genuine awe, quickly went viral, drawing attention to her humble background and the profound significance of a moment often taken for granted. "When we were on air, I could see the sky differently," she recounted. "Down here, we look up to the sky. But when you’re flying, it’s almost like the sky is beneath you. I couldn’t stop thinking about how such a heavy plane could stay up there."

Touched by her story, Air Peace's Corporate Communications team visited Chinyere in her community, where they were greeted with a jubilant celebration. The visit served to honor her story and reinforce Air Peace’s commitment to connecting even the most remote communities to opportunities across Nigeria and beyond. Representing the Chairman/CEO, Dr. Allen Onyema, the delegation presented her with two complimentary return Economy tickets to any domestic destination of her choice, along with branded souvenirs.

Dr. Onyema emphasized that "Ms. Gold Chinyere Ike’s journey represents exactly why we do what we do. Air Peace was founded not only to provide safe and affordable air travel, but to make flying accessible to everyday Nigerians—women, men, young people—regardless of their background," adding that "we believe that when people move, dreams move with them."

Chinyere expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Air Peace and Dr. Allen Onyema, stating, "I never expected this. Air Peace is the biggest, not just in Africa, but worldwide." She eagerly anticipates exploring Lagos and Abuja, a city she has long dreamt of visiting.

Air Peace continues to focus on democratizing air travel, creating numerous direct and indirect jobs, and stimulating local economies by expanding routes and connecting underserved regions. From entrepreneurs seeking new markets to students pursuing education, Air Peace is dedicated to being more than just an airline—it is a catalyst for empowerment and nation-building. The airline renews its pledge to bridge gaps, ensuring that every Nigerian can dream bigger, soar higher, and see the skies as a place where they belong.