Air Peace Grounds All Flights Nationwide, States Two Main Reasons
- Air Peace has suspended all flight operations nationwide due to the ongoing strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet)
- The airline explained that the strike has led to the unavailability of QNH (hazardous weather) reports necessary for safe landings
- Air Peace assured passengers that it is monitoring the situation and working with relevant parties to minimise the impact on travel plans
Legit.ng journalist Victor Enengedi has over a decade's experience covering Energy, MSMEs, Technology, Banking and the Economy.
Air Peace has halted all flight operations nationwide due to the ongoing strike by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
NiMet workers began an indefinite strike at midnight on Tuesday, April 22, 2024.
The union instructed its members to stop providing services at airports across the country starting from midnight.
Source: Getty Images
This action followed the failure of NiMet management to address the ultimatum issued, which expired on April 16, 2025.
Why NiMet commenced strike
Employees of NiMet began an indefinite nationwide strike over several unresolved welfare issues.
Key reasons cited include NiMet’s refusal to negotiate or implement agreed financial allowances, non-payment of wage awards, peculiar allowances, and outstanding entitlements linked to the 2019 minimum wage.
Workers also accused management of withholding vital documents, excluding some staff from past payments, and prioritising executive retreats over essential staff training.
Despite previous efforts and agreements dating back to January 28, 2025, the unions lamented that management largely failed to fulfil its promises.
They highlighted that the ongoing disparities in remuneration compared to their peers have caused extreme hardship and poverty among workers.
With the expiration of the latest ultimatum and no tangible action from management, the unions directed members to withdraw their services indefinitely from April 22, stressing that they could no longer endure the prevailing conditions without substantial improvements.
Air Peace suspends flights amid NiMet strike
Air Peace's decision to halt flight operations is contained in a statement signed by its Head of Corporate Communications, Dr Ejike Ndiulo, on Wednesday, April 23, in Lagos.
The airline explained that it is also suspending operations because the necessary QNH (hazardous weather) reports, which are vital for safe landings, are unavailable.
“Due to the ongoing NiMet strike and the unavailability of QNH (hazardous weather) reports required for safe landings, Air Peace has suspended all flight operations nationwide until the strike is over.”
The airline expressed gratitude to potential passengers for their understanding and assured them that updates would be provided as the situation develops.
Earlier, the airline had warned that the NiMet strike could cause flight delays and cancellations across its network.
Air Peace added that it is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with relevant parties to reduce the impact on customers' travel plans.
It would be recalled that less than a week ago, the airline announced a suspension of flight operations to the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu due to safety concerns.
The PUNCH reports that many air travellers were left stranded as the protest led to delays and cancellations of several flights.
Impact of NiMet strike on aviation sector
Reacting to the strike by NiMet staff, Adekunle Olutayo, an aviation expert, told Legit.ng that the situation poses a significant threat to the aviation sector in Nigeria.
He said:
"Accurate and timely weather forecasts are critical for flight planning, air traffic control, and overall passenger safety. Without NiMet’s services, airlines may face increased flight delays, cancellations, and heightened operational risks, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
"The disruption could also affect airport operations, international flight schedules, and insurance liabilities. In a sector where safety is paramount, the absence of professional meteorological input exposes airlines, pilots, and passengers to considerable dangers, emphasising the urgent need for swift resolution of the dispute."
Source: UGC
Air Peace slashes airfares on London route
Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that Air Peace announced significant discounts on its London route, allowing passengers to save up to N600,000 when travelling from Nigerian cities to London.
In addition, the airline is offering an exclusive deal with one free extra piece of luggage.
The airline emphasised its commitment to becoming the largest carrier in West and Central Africa, striving to boost prosperity through reliable travel and strengthen its position in the global aviation industry.
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Source: Legit.ng
