Published: September 14, 2025
By: Chinedu Okoro – Senior Aviation & Transport Editor
Executive Summary
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has cleared the Air Peace co-pilot involved in the July 13 runway excursion at Port Harcourt International Airport, citing no evidence against him. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) had earlier released a preliminary report suggesting both pilots tested positive for alcohol and a cabin crew member for cannabis (THC). Air Peace disputes having received a formal NSIB finding, reinstated the co-pilot with NCAA approval, and pledged stricter internal testing.
This incident underscores the differences between investigative and regulatory roles in aviation, the importance of confirmed evidence, and the need for clear public communication to maintain trust in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The Incident: What Happened
On July 13, 2025, an Air Peace Boeing 737 operating the Lagos–Port Harcourt route veered off the runway during landing. All passengers and crew were reported safe, though the aircraft left the paved surface. Emergency response teams and NSIB investigators arrived immediately.
Runway excursions are serious non-fatal incidents that can result from weather conditions, equipment issues, or pilot decision-making. Swift investigation and proper reporting are critical for safety and public confidence.
Timeline of Events
Date Event
July 13, 2025 Runway excursion occurs; NSIB initiates on-site investigation.
Early September 2025 NSIB issues preliminary report suggesting positive alcohol and THC tests among crew.
Mid-September 2025 Air Peace states no formal NSIB report was received, reinstates the co-pilot with NCAA approval, and pledges enhanced testing.
September 2025 NCAA announces the co-pilot is cleared, citing no evidence for disciplinary action.
The timeline highlights how preliminary findings can create public confusion before final conclusions are reached.
Understanding the Agencies
Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB)
The NSIB investigates aviation incidents to determine causes, not to assign blame. Preliminary reports are issued shortly after incidents, followed by detailed final reports. Their main objective is improving aviation safety and preventing recurrence.
Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
The NCAA regulates airlines, licenses pilots, and enforces safety standards. It can suspend or revoke licenses but requires confirmed laboratory results and proper chain of custody before taking disciplinary action. The difference in mandate explains why preliminary NSIB findings alone were insufficient for regulatory action.
Toxicology Testing: Why Preliminary Findings Are Not Final
Field or on-scene tests are often the first step in aviation incident investigations. However, these tests are not always conclusive:
1. False Positives Can Occur: Certain medications or even foods may trigger a field alcohol sensor.
2. Chain of Custody Matters: Proper documentation and secure handling are essential to prevent contamination.
3. Confirmatory Lab Tests Are Required: Only accredited laboratories can provide conclusive evidence for regulatory or legal action.
Consequently, an initial positive test cannot be the sole basis for suspending a pilot.
Crew Resource Management (CRM) Insights
Reports indicate the co-pilot called for a go-around when the approach appeared unstable. This is a standard CRM protocol demonstrating professional decision-making under pressure. The co-pilot’s quick response supports the NCAA’s decision to reinstate him.
Air Peace’s Position and Safety Measures
In its official statement, Air Peace emphasized:
It had not received a formal NSIB report.
The co-pilot acted professionally and was reinstated with NCAA approval.
The airline will increase random drug and alcohol testing to reinforce safety and public confidence.
This dual approach defends the crew while strengthening internal safety measures.
Regulatory and Legal Implications
Due Process: The NCAA cannot revoke licenses based on preliminary findings alone.
Inter-Agency Coordination: Gaps between NSIB reports and NCAA actions highlight the need for synchronized messaging.
Transparency: Clear explanations of testing procedures and timelines are essential to maintain public trust.
International aviation standards recommend treating preliminary findings as informational rather than punitive.
Lessons for the Aviation Industry
For Regulators: Provide joint updates when preliminary and regulatory findings differ to avoid confusion.
For Airlines: Implement frequent random testing, maintain rigorous documentation, and strengthen CRM training.
For Passengers: Understand that early reports may not reflect final conclusions; rely on official updates for accurate information.
Expert Opinions
Aviation consultant Dr. Ifeoma Adewale notes:
“Initial field tests are often superseded by laboratory analyses. Until the final NSIB report is released, it is premature to draw definitive conclusions.”
Pilot union representative Capt. Hassan Bello adds:
“The co-pilot’s decision to call for a go-around shows alertness and professionalism. Confirmed evidence must guide any regulatory action.”
These insights emphasize the importance of process over speculation.
Broader Context: Runway Excursions in Nigeria
Runway excursions in Nigeria are often linked to:
Heavy rainfall and wet runways
Inadequate runway maintenance
Pilot decision errors
Global data from ICAO confirms that unstable approaches and delayed go-arounds are common causes of runway excursions. Addressing these risks requires improvements in both pilot training and airport infrastructure.
Future Outlook
Key developments to monitor:
1. NSIB Final Report: Will confirm or revise preliminary findings and provide causal analysis.
2. NCAA Policy Updates: May include guidelines for inter-agency communication and confirmatory testing.
3. Air Peace Safety Enhancements: Implementation of promised random testing and CRM training.
The final NSIB report will be decisive for public understanding and regulatory follow-up.
Key Takeaways
NCAA clearance reflects adherence to evidentiary standards requiring confirmed laboratory results.
Preliminary NSIB findings are not final and may change after thorough analysis.
Clear, coordinated communication between agencies is essential for public confidence.
Professional decision-making by flight crew, as seen in the go-around call, is a critical factor in evaluating incident responses.
Author Bio
Chinedu Okoro is the Senior Aviation & Transport Editor at SaharaNews247. With over 11 years of experience covering African and international aviation safety, Chinedu has reported on airline operations, regulatory oversight, and transport infrastructure across West Africa.
Contact: chinedu.okoro@saharanews247.com
