The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has addressed the controversy surrounding its decision to clear the co-pilot of an Air Peace flight that skidded off the runway earlier this year. The clarification follows public debate after the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) reportedly indicted members of the crew for being under the influence of hard drugs and alcohol.
The incident occurred on Sunday, June 13, when an Air Peace aircraft veered off the runway at Port Harcourt International Airport after landing. Fortunately, there was no damage to the aircraft or casualties among passengers and crew. According to the NSIB’s preliminary findings, the plane touched down more than 2,200 metres beyond the runway threshold—well past the recommended touchdown zone—and finally came to rest in the clearway.
Following toxicology screenings, the NSIB alleged that some crew members tested positive for alcohol and banned substances. Air Peace, however, strongly disputed the claims, arguing that the findings lacked credibility.
Speaking on the matter during an interactive session on X (formerly Twitter), NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, stressed that the agency acted strictly on evidence available to it. He explained that the NCAA conducted its own internal review alongside the NSIB report, and both did not implicate the co-pilot in any wrongdoing.
“The NCAA has been accused of wrongfully clearing the first officer, but that is not the case,” Achimugu stated. “Our internal investigation and the NSIB’s initial findings showed that the co-pilot was not culpable. In fact, records indicate he advised the captain to initiate a go-around, advice that was ignored. It would be unjust to ground someone indefinitely when there is no evidence against them.”
He added that while airlines may maintain internal policies and compliance mechanisms, the NCAA’s regulations are subject to continuous updates because real-life incidents often expose gaps in existing rules. “No matter how robust regulations look on paper, their strength is only proven when tested in actual scenarios,” he said.
Achimugu further disclosed that Capt. Chris Najomo, the NCAA Director General, is personally reviewing the case and will issue a formal statement. He emphasised that the authority adheres to internationally recognised post-incident procedures, including the use of approved testing centres. However, he noted that some aspects of the NSIB’s report still need clarification, and discussions are ongoing with the bureau.
“I have flagged certain inconsistencies in the NSIB’s findings and reached out for clarifications. My DG has just returned to the country and will address the matter formally,” he noted.
During the session, aviation expert Bamidele Badmos raised concerns about the public handling of the incident, stressing that the airline’s reputation is at stake. “Air Peace operates on international routes. If such sensitive matters are trivialised, it could threaten Nigeria’s Bilateral Air Services Agreements,” he warned.
Badmos underscored the importance of applying aviation rules uniformly, irrespective of the airline or individuals involved. He cautioned airline staff against making casual media appearances or public comments that might worsen the situation. “Aviation is a highly regulated industry. Once an infraction occurs, procedures must be followed strictly. Informal defences or challenges to regulators in the media only undermine credibility,” he said.
The NCAA has promised further updates as investigations continue, reiterating its commitment to upholding global safety standards and protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
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