In an unprecedented move, Air Peace suspended all domestic flights effective immediately Wednesday, citing “unacceptable safety risks” caused by the ongoing Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) strike that has paralyzed critical weather reporting systems.
Why This Matters
✔ Total Shutdown: First nationwide suspension by major Nigerian carrier
✔ Safety Crisis: Missing real-time storm alerts threaten rainy season operations
✔ Passenger Impact: Thousands stranded as peak travel season begins
Air Peace’s Official Statement:
“Without NiMet’s Current Nowcast of Hazardous Weather (CNH) reports, we cannot safely conduct operations during this period of frequent thunderstorms. As a safety-first airline, we regrettably must suspend all flights until NiMet services resume.”
The Heart of the Crisis
- NiMet’s Role: Provides minute-by-minute storm tracking for aircraft landings
- Strike Timeline: Meteorological staff walked out Monday over unpaid allowances
- Industry Domino Effect: Other airlines considering similar suspensions
Expert Analysis:
“CNH reports are like oxygen for aviation during rainy season,” explained Captain Adebayo Ogunlesi, former NCAA safety director. “Without them, pilots are flying blind into potential microbursts or wind shear.”
Passenger Fallout
- Automatic rebooking offered for affected travelers
- Refund processing delayed until operations resume
- Airport chaos reported in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt
Aviation Ministry Response:
Minister Festus Keyamo has convened emergency talks with NiMet leadership and labor unions, calling the strike “a matter of national security.”
What’s Next?
- 24-Hour Deadline: Government demands NiMet return to work
- Contingency Plans: Military weather units may provide temporary coverage
- Financial Impact: Air Peace losing ₦300 million daily in grounded operations