Air Peace airlines has completely rebutted the reports issued that some of its crew had allegedly tested positive for alcohol and marijuana. The airline stated that, while the incident has been widely discussed in the media, it has received no formal communication from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirming any such investigation.
The issue stems from a July 13th, 2025 event, when an Air Peace 737-524from Lagos overran the runway after a long landing in Port Harcourt that resulted in the evacuation of all 103-passengers and crew and no injuries.
According to the NSIB’s preliminary findings, toxicology tests revealed alcohol in the captain’s and co-pilot’s systems. The NSIB further stated that one cabin crew member had tested positive for THC, the psycho-active component of the Cannabis plant.
Air Peace vehemently rejected the claims. The airline stated that the captain was removed based on failing to execute the Crew Resource Management procedures during a long land and not based on the use of any substance. The airline stated that the co-pilot recommended performing a go-around, which was disregarded by the captain. They further said that since the incident, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has cleared the co-pilot and returned them to active duty.
The airline also indicated that it has a unique zero tolerance position on drugs and alcohol, which is more stringent than what the regulatory authority requires, and that it randomly completes drug testing assessments to verify compliance.
Air Peace also pledged to improve internal monitoring, fitness-for-duty assessments, and Crew Resource Management training, while maintaining a focus on passenger safety and risk elimination across all operations.
As part of its investigation, the NSIB has suggested improved crew training, fitness-for-duty assessments, and a better safety management system.
The controversy has heightened public concern and called into question the transparency of aviation regulation. Despite the fact that the NSIB’s initial findings indicate some form of alcohol or drug use, Air Peace claims it has no official information.
The NSIB has yet to release its final report, so all stakeholders are waiting for it to address this issue of drug and alcohol use.
Read more interesting news point at the homepage.