Cracked windshield prompts turnaround, all passengers on board accounted for – Air Peace

Air Peace countered claims that passengers on its Abuja–London service were abandoned after an air return on Friday, stating that all passengers received proper care and attention, with the airline's management releasing a statement to clarify the situation that occurred on March 13, 2026.

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The air return was caused by a windshield crack, suspected to have been the result of a bird strike, prompting the decision to return to base in accordance with established aviation safety protocols, according to the airline's management.

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Passengers were offered alternative flight options and hotel accommodations, with the airline ensuring that those in need were provided for, as part of its standard passenger care procedures and adherence to global aviation best practices.

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The aircraft safely returned to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where all passengers disembarked without incident, while the airline's engineering team conducted the necessary technical checks on the aircraft.

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Air Peace provided passengers with options to fly out the same day through its Lagos-Gatwick route or the following day through Abuja to London, with the majority of passengers flown to Lagos free of charge to join the Lagos – Gatwick flight, while some opted to fly the next day through Abuja.

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Hotel accommodations were made available to passengers who required them, with the airline emphasizing that no passenger was left stranded or abandoned during the handling of the situation.

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Air Peace maintains a strong working relationship with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and remains committed to regulatory compliance, passenger protection, and operational transparency, as a responsible airline.

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The airline expressed appreciation for the patience and understanding shown by its valued passengers and the traveling public during the disruption, while also condemning the deliberate bashing and persistent criticism of Air Peace for unfounded reasons.

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Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest safety standards, delivering safe, reliable, and world-class air transport services across its domestic and international network, with safety remaining the cornerstone of its operations.