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Air Peace has clarified reports linking one of its grounded captains to substance abuse following a July 13, 2025, incident in Port Harcourt.
The airline confirmed the captain was relieved of duty, not for substance abuse, but for failing to adhere to Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles.
It stressed the captain ignored a go-around instruction from his First Officer, prompting decisive disciplinary action.
According to the airline, substance abuse did not play a role in the crew’s relief. Air Peace reiterated that it enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol and drug use. Regular crew screening, it added, goes beyond the industry’s “eight hours before flight” standard.
In a statement, the airline explained that it has not received any official communication from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) regarding alleged toxicological findings.
It added that breathalyser results conducted within an hour of the incident have also not been communicated.
“The captain of the affected flight was grounded strictly for CRM failure and failure to execute the go-around procedure. No official toxicology or breathalyser report has been sent to us by NSIB,” the airline clarified.
Air Peace further confirmed that the First Officer, who advised the go-around and demonstrated professionalism, has been cleared by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and reinstated to active duty.
The airline stressed that NCAA clearance would not have been issued if the First Officer had been implicated in substance abuse or alcohol use.
Air Peace emphasised its safety measures:
Regular alcohol and drug screening for all crew.
A policy stricter than the global “eight hours before flight” alcohol rule.
Absolute prohibition of drug use.
It added that if the captain’s toxicology test is eventually confirmed positive, the airline will intensify its already strict testing regime.
The airline also disclosed that Enhanced Crew Resource Management training has been reinforced across its operations. Internal monitoring and fitness-for-duty checks have also been expanded to prevent CRM lapses.
Reassuring passengers, the airline stated:
“Air Peace has maintained a strong safety record since inception, guided by global best practices and transparency. Safety remains the cornerstone of our operations and will never be compromised.”
This statement comes as aviation stakeholders continue to monitor developments around the NSIB’s investigation into the incident.
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