Why Air Peace co-pilot was cleared despite NSIB report

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has provided clarity on its decision to reinstate the co-pilot of an Air Peace flight involved in a runway excursion incident, despite earlier reports linking some crew members to alcohol and drug use.

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Air Peace aircraft had a runway excursion on Sunday, 13 June, after landing at Port Harcourt International Airport, though no damage was reported.

The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) later revealed that the plane touched down 2,264 metres from the runway threshold, well beyond the recommended zone and came to a stop 209 metres into the clearway.

Also, medical tests conducted on the crew reportedly detected traces of alcohol and cannabis in some members.

The airline later disputed these findings, arguing that not all crew members were at fault.

Reacting to the claim, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, during an X Space discussion on Saturday, said the regulatory body acted according to due process, based on both the available facts and its internal investigation.

He noted that the co-pilot was not implicated in either the NCAA’s review or the NSIB preliminary report, explaining his clearance and return to duty.

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“I learnt yesterday that the NCAA was being blamed for giving clearance to the first officer. But based on the NCAA internal findings and the NSIB preliminary report, the co-pilot was not found culpable,” Mr Achimugu said.

“In fact, he advised the captain to go around, which the captain did not follow. It would be unfair to ground someone for a year while an investigation continues if there is no evidence of wrongdoing,” he added.

Mr Achimugu also highlighted that regulations are sometimes tested in real-life situations, which is why the NCAA continuously reviews its rules. He added that airlines are expected to maintain their internal compliance policies and report them to the authority.

“No matter how thorough regulations appear on paper, their effectiveness is proven only when incidents occur. That is why rules are regularly reviewed and updated,” he said.

The director explained that further actions would be handled by the Director General of the NCAA, Chris Najomo, who has resumed investigations.

He reiterated that the NCAA follows internationally recognised procedures for post-incident assessments, including the use of approved testing centres.

Despite these clarifications, some concerns were raised particularly regarding the NSIB, which is the statutory body responsible for accident and incident investigations.

“I have contacted the NSIB and discussed the matter, but I am still waiting for full feedback. I flagged inconsistencies that need urgent attention. The DG has just returned and is expected to provide a formal statement tonight,” Mr Achimugu explained.

READ ALSO: Air Peace reacts to report that its pilots tested positive to alcohol, cannabis

Aviation expert Bamidele Badmos raised concerns over the airline’s public communication.

“The image of Air Peace is at stake. The airline flies international routes, and treating incidents lightly could put Nigeria’s Bilateral Air Services Agreements at risk,” he said.

Mr Badmus emphasised that aviation rules must be applied consistently.

“This sector has high standards. Operations cannot be treated like a regular business. Any infraction must be addressed immediately. The rules are clear and non-negotiable. Defending someone publicly without facts only complicates the situation,” he said.

He further advised airline personnel against giving informal media interviews, warning that such actions could exacerbate public confusion.

“Staff should leave sensitive matters to official channels and professionals,” he added.