BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Air Peace has temporarily grounded its scheduled Lagos–London Gatwick service after a routine technical check detected what it described as a “minor aircraft fault” shortly after passengers boarded the flight.
The airline disclosed this in a statement on Friday, assuring passengers that the disruption was a precautionary safety measure in line with global aviation standards.
According to Air Peace, the issue was discovered during a post-boarding inspection, prompting the immediate withdrawal of the aircraft from service and the safe disembarkation of all passengers.
“Following the completion of passenger boarding, a routine post-boarding technical check identified a minor aircraft fault that required immediate attention,” the airline stated.
“In line with our uncompromising commitment to safety and global aviation standards, the aircraft was promptly withdrawn from service and passengers safely disembarked”, it added.
The development temporarily disrupted the Lagos–London Gatwick route, one of Air Peace’s flagship international operations since its entry into the United Kingdom market.
Reassuring travellers, the airline stressed that passenger safety would always take priority over operational timelines.
“At Air Peace, the safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew will always take precedence over operational schedules.
“While we understand the inconvenience this situation may have caused, taking swift preventive action was the responsible and necessary decision”, the statement added.
To cushion the impact of the delay, the airline said affected passengers were provided with hotel accommodation and other support services while arrangements were made for an alternative aircraft.
“All affected passengers were immediately informed and provided with support, including hotel accommodation and other necessary assistance to ensure their comfort.
“To minimise further disruption, a replacement aircraft from London will be dispatched and passengers are scheduled to depart this morning”, the carrier explained.
The airline also expressed appreciation to passengers for their patience and cooperation during the disruption, noting that customer trust remains central to its operations.
“We deeply appreciate the patience, understanding, and cooperation shown by our passengers during this period. Their trust remains incredibly important to us,” the carrier said.
Air Peace reiterated its commitment to safe and reliable operations, insisting that adherence to strict safety procedures remains non-negotiable across its domestic and international network.
“Air Peace remains fully committed to delivering safe, reliable service at all times,” the statement noted.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
