Air Peace has clarified a chaotic situation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where passengers overwhelmed airport security staff, creating pandemonium at the airside. The incident, which occurred on December 20, 2024, involved passengers boarding flight P47123 from Abuja to Lagos. The airline attributed the commotion to weather-induced delays, not operational lapses, emphasizing its commitment to passenger safety and satisfaction.
In an official statement, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications, explained that harmattan-induced haze and fog significantly impacted visibility, causing nationwide flight delays. “On the day in question, poor weather conditions disrupted operations, delaying flights, and creating unavoidable challenges for travelers,” the statement noted. Air Peace responded swiftly by deploying three aircraft to Abuja, ensuring all passengers could continue their journeys with minimal inconvenience.
However, the boarding process spiraled out of control when passengers overwhelmed airport security staff, forcing their way to the airside. Duty managers and ramp officials had to mount barricades to restore order and differentiate passengers for specific flights. “The boarding gate officers and FAAN security personnel were overrun, necessitating immediate measures to manage the situation,” the statement added. NCAA slams Turkish Airlines, suspends carrier from Nigeria over baggage issues
Amid the chaos, a viral video misrepresented the situation, falsely accusing the airline of operational shortcomings. Air Peace strongly condemned the misinformation, describing it as “false, mischievous, and misleading.” Dr. Ndiulo accused unidentified individuals of intentionally spreading falsehoods to undermine the airline’s reputation and mislead the public.
“We empathize with our loyal customers but firmly reject the deliberate falsehoods circulated online. These representations do not reflect our values or operations,” Dr. Ndiulo emphasized. He reiterated that Air Peace prioritizes passenger safety, maintaining that it is not merely a priority but a fundamental precondition for all its activities.
The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the delays and urged passengers to remain patient during such unavoidable disruptions. To address further inquiries or concerns, the airline encouraged passengers to reach out via its official communication channels.
This incident underscores the complexities airlines face during peak travel seasons, particularly when adverse weather conditions disrupt operations. It highlights the importance of calm and cooperation among all stakeholders, ensuring smooth and efficient air travel.
