NSIB Didn’t Notify Us About Positive Alcohol Test Result Of Our Pilot– Air Peace

Air Peace has faulted reports based on a preliminary investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), saying it was never officially informed about any positive alcohol test result for its pilot involved in the July 13 Port Harcourt runway incident.

In a statement released on Friday, the airline emphasized that, despite widespread reports, the NSIB has not communicated any test results or findings to the airline over a month after the incident.

Air Peace described the situation as “concerning,” particularly given that alcohol tests were reportedly conducted within an hour of the incident.

“We are yet to receive any official communications from the NSIB on such findings… the result was not communicated to us,” the airline stated.

The incident involved a flight that failed to follow standard landing procedures, leading to a safety scare.

According to the airline, immediate disciplinary actions were taken internally. The captain was grounded for failing to adhere to Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles and ignoring a go-around call from his First Officer.

However, Air Peace clarified that this action was not based on an alcohol test result.
Meanwhile, the First Officer, praised for professionalism during the incident, has since been reinstated and cleared by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), further challenging claims of substance misuse.

“If he was involved in drug or alcohol use, the NCAA would not have cleared him to resume flight duties,” the airline noted.

Air Peace reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on substance abuse and claimed its internal alcohol testing procedures are stricter than the regulatory minimum.
“Drug use is a no-no,” the airline affirmed.
The airline also stated that, if it turns out the captain did test positive, it would take further steps to increase the frequency of alcohol and drug testing for all crew members.