Air Peace has attributed disruptions to its Abuja operations to the unavailability of Jet A1 aviation fuel and subsequent Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions that prevented an Abuja-Maiduguri flight from operating beyond sunset.
The airline however said once the aviation fuel became available, Air Peace said its affected flights resumed operations accordingly.
Air Peace’s provided the update on disruptions affecting its Abuja operations at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, after reports and footage emerged showing passengers expressing concerns over the delays.
Meanwhile, it said it kept affected passengers informed throughout the situation and provided assistance while efforts were made to restore its flight schedule.
Abuja Operations Hit by Jet A1 Fuel Unavailability
According to Air Peace, the first major issue affecting its Abuja operations was the unavailability of Jet A1 aviation fuel.
The shortage affected not only Air Peace but also other airlines operating from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Therefore, the availability of the fuel became a key factor in determining when affected flights could resume.
Air Peace said that after fuel became available, the affected flights commenced operations accordingly.
However, the airline explained that the situation subsequently affected its Abuja-Maiduguri service, which could not operate as originally planned despite an extension initially being granted for the flight.
The airline said the circumstances surrounding the extension changed before boarding could take place.
VFR Conditions Further Delayed Abuja Operations
Air Peace said the Abuja+Maiduguri flight faced another operational challenge after the aircraft became ready for boarding.
According to the airline, prevailing Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions meant that the extension granted for the flight was no longer tenable. Consequently, the aircraft could not operate beyond sunset, preventing the Abuja-Maiduguri service from proceeding as planned.
The development resulted in the cancellation of the affected flight. Air Peace subsequently made arrangements for the passengers to continue their journey the following day.
The airline’s explanation therefore points to two separate factors behind the disruption: the initial unavailability of Jet A1 aviation fuel and the subsequent operating limitations created by prevailing VFR conditions and sunset restrictions.
Throughout the disruption, Air Peace said passengers were duly informed about the delays. In addition, the airline provided refreshments to passengers affected by the situation.
Following the cancellation of the Abuja-Maiduguri service, the airline said affected passengers were also provided with hotel accommodation. Arrangements were then made to operate the flight the following day.
Air Peace Apologises to Affected Passengers
Air Peace expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the disruption and thanked passengers for their patience and understanding.
The airline said, “We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to our esteemed passengers and appreciate their patience and understanding.”
The carrier also reaffirmed its position on passenger safety and wellbeing, saying these considerations remain central to its operations.
“At Air Peace, the safety and wellbeing of our passengers remain paramount, and we will continue to prioritise these considerations in all our operations,” the airline said.
The latest development highlights the operational challenges that can affect scheduled flights when fuel availability and weather or operating conditions change.
