Air Peace has blamed fuel shortage and weather as the cause of its Abuja flight disruptions.
Glamtush reports that Air Peace has attributed recent flight disruptions at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to the unavailability of Jet A1 aviation fuel and weather conditions that subsequently prevented its Abuja-Maiduguri service from operating as scheduled.
The airline gave the explanation in a statement issued following reports and videos circulating on social media showing passengers expressing concerns over the disruptions.
According to Air Peace, the initial delays to its Abuja operations were caused by the unavailability of Jet A1 aviation fuel, a situation it said affected other airlines operating from the airport.
“The initial delays to our Abuja operations were occasioned by the unavailability of Jet A1 aviation fuel, which affected Air Peace and other airlines operating from the airport. Upon the availability of fuel, our affected flights commenced operations accordingly.
“However, our Abuja–Maiduguri service could not subsequently operate as planned. Although an extension had initially been granted for the flight, by the time the aircraft was ready for boarding, prevailing VFR conditions meant that the extension was no longer tenable, as the flight could not operate beyond sunset,” the airline said.
The airline said its affected flights resumed operations after the fuel became available.
However, Air Peace said its Abuja-Maiduguri service could not operate despite an extension that had initially been granted for the flight.
It explained that by the time the aircraft was ready for boarding, prevailing Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions meant the extension was no longer viable, as the flight could not operate beyond sunset.
“Throughout the disruption, passengers were duly informed of the delays and provided with refreshments,” the airline said.
Air Peace added that following the cancellation of the flight, affected passengers were provided with hotel accommodation, while arrangements were made to operate the service the following day.
The airline apologised to passengers affected by the disruptions and said it appreciated their patience and understanding.
“We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to our esteemed passengers,” Air Peace said, stressing that the safety and wellbeing of its passengers remained its priority.
The airline added that it would continue to prioritise safety considerations in its operations.
