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NCAA investigation finds no culpability against co-pilot after Port Harcourt runway excursion.
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NSIB preliminary report noted late touchdown and substance indicators in crew, but co-pilot advised go-around.
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Regulatory and airline procedures under scrutiny; inconsistencies flagged for further review.
The Nigerian Aviation Authority (NCAA) has cleared Air Peace co-pilot David Bernard following a runway excursion incident at Port Harcourt International Airport on July 13, 2025, despite preliminary NSIB findings indicating traces of alcohol and other substances in crew members’ systems.
NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, explained that both NCAA internal investigations and the NSIB preliminary report exonerated the co-pilot. Bernard had reportedly advised the captain to execute a go-around, a recommendation that was ignored.
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“It is unjust to keep someone grounded for a year while an investigation is ongoing if there is no evidence of wrongdoing,” Achimugu said.
The incident saw the Air Peace aircraft touch down 2,264 metres from the runway threshold, well beyond the recommended touchdown zone, eventually coming to a stop 209 metres into the clearway.
While the NSIB initially indicated concerns regarding crew compliance, NCAA officials insist that due process was observed, and international standard procedures for post-incident assessments were followed.
Achimugu added that airline internal policies must comply with NCAA oversight, yet the robustness of regulations is tested only during real-life incidents.
He noted outstanding questions on certain NSIB findings and flagged inconsistencies requiring clarification, stating that the Director General of NCAA, Capt Chris Najomo, will address the matter formally.
Industry observers, including participant Bamidele Badmos, emphasised that uniform application of safety regulations is critical to protect airline reputations and international Bilateral Air Services Agreements.
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He warned against informal media statements by airline staff that could complicate regulatory scrutiny.
The NCAA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high safety standards while balancing fair treatment for cleared personnel, highlighting the importance of transparent investigative processes in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
