Air Peace Halts All Nigerian Flights Due to NiMet Strike – Safety Crisis Explained
Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has suspended all domestic and international flights indefinitely, citing “extreme safety risks” from the ongoing Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) strike. This unprecedented shutdown leaves thousands stranded and raises urgent questions about aviation safety protocols during weather service blackouts.
Why This Matters for Travelers
Immediate Impacts:
✔ All Air Peace bookings cancelled until further notice
✔ No alternative weather data for takeoff/landing safety checks
✔ Potential domino effect on other airlines
Financial Fallout:
- Estimated ₦2.8B daily loss for Nigeria’s aviation sector
- Travel insurance claims expected to surge by 200%
Behind the Decision: Air Peace’s Full Statement
In an official release, Air Peace management stated:
“We regret to inform you that due to the ongoing strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Air Peace is suspending all flight operations nationwide with immediate effect.“
The airline stated that the decision to suspend operations was imperative, emphasizing that NiMet plays a critical role in issuing Current Nowcast of Hazardous Weather (CNH) reports – essential documents for ensuring safe landings, particularly during Nigeria’s ongoing rainy season with frequent thunderstorms.
Air Peace further clarified that without these real-time weather updates from air traffic control, guaranteeing flight safety becomes impossible. As an airline that prioritizes safety above all else, they deemed it necessary to halt all flights until NiMet fully restores its services.
While acknowledging the inconvenience caused to passengers, the carrier assured that affected travelers would receive direct communications regarding flight rescheduling options and updates on the situation.
Key Safety Concerns:
⚠️ Zero thunderstorm alerts for flight routes
⚠️ No wind shear detection
⚠️ Absence of CNH reports from control towers
What Travelers Must Do Now
Emergency Steps for Affected Passengers:
- Refund Process:
- Contact Air Peace via 0700FLYAIRPEACE
- Document cancellation notices for insurance claims
- Alternative Airlines:
- Arik Air & United Nigeria still operating (but with delays)
- Caution: Other carriers may follow Air Peace’s lead
- Legal Rights:
- Under Nigerian Civil Aviation Act, you’re entitled to:
- Full refunds within 7 working days
- Free rescheduling post-strike
Industry-Wide Domino Effect
1. Aviation Regulatory Response
- NCAA emergency meeting with NiMet airlines today
- Contingency plan: Military weather satellites may provide limited data
2. Economic Ripple Effects
- Hotel/tourism losses: Estimated ₦650M/day in Lagos alone
- Export delays: Perishable goods at risk without cargo flights
3. Global Implications
IATA watching closely – Could affect Nigeria’s air safety rating
Foreign airlines (Emirates, BA) may impose extra surcharges
We understand this may cause inconvenience, and we sincerely apologise. Passengers will be contacted with updates and options for rescheduling
Airpeace management
Expert Predictions: How Long Will This Last?
Best Case: 72-hour resolution (If FG intervenes)
Worst Case: 2+ week paralysis (Total sector shutdown)
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