TheCable

The federal government says Air Peace has addressed the safety concerns raised by the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority (UK CAA).

Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation, spoke on Wednesday via his X handle.

The minister’s statement comes amid the recent concerns raised by the UK CAA.

In a letter dated April 7, the UK CAA raised concerns over Air Peace’s compliance with some safety regulations in the UK.

UK aviation authority said findings showed Air Peace was using electronic flight bag (EFB) functions without operational approval.

However, responding to the allegations, the airline said the report was “false”, adding that approval was obtained from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

In his statement on Wednesday, Keyamo said his attention was drawn to the possible violation.

“My attention has been drawn to recent media publications citing some issues allegedly relating to possible safety violations at the Gatwick Airport by Airpeace Airlines raised by Safety inspectors of the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority,” the minister said.

“We want to reiterate that Air Peace Airlines is the Nigerian flag carrier designated on the London route and as such enjoys the full backing and support of the Nigerian government in its operation of that route. 

“I have been adequately and reliably briefed on the progress made thus far on this issue by the Acting Director General of the  NCAA.

“I am informed that the safety issues raised have since been adequately addressed by the Management of Air Peace and promptly closed to the satisfaction of the UK authorities.”

Keyamo further said the federal government backs all Nigerian carriers operating on different international routes and will always get the required assistance to ensure their success.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the federal government of Nigeria has put its full weight and might behind all the local airlines designated on international routes in their endeavours in prosecuting these operations and shall provide all the necessary assistance and cooperation to ensure their success. Air Peace is no exception in this regard,” he said.

The minister said the federal government will continue to support and nudge all Nigerian flag carriers designated on different international routes, including Air Peace forward in pursuit of world-class operational excellence.

Keyamo also said he has full confidence in their operations.