Owerri-bound Air Peace Flight Turns Back Mid-Air, Citing ‘Sunset Airport’ Operations

An Air Peace flight destined for Owerri faced unexpected challenges, resulting in a mid-air turnaround and passenger frustration. The incident, which unfolded on April 17, drew attention to issues surrounding flight delays and operational procedures.

The passenger, identified as @Grace_undiluted, took to social media to share her ordeal. She revealed that the Abuja-Owerri flight, priced at N120,000, experienced a 17-hour delay and departed Abuja at 6:18 PM instead of the scheduled 4:30 PM due to pilot unavailability.

Mid-flight, passengers were informed of the turnaround as Owerri airport was set to close by 6:40 PM, leading to a return to Abuja. Grace described the subsequent disorganization, highlighting a lack of communication and promised accommodations.

Passengers, left stranded, expressed frustration over missed connections and substantial financial losses. Despite assurances of alternative arrangements, including hotel stays, issues persisted with delayed promises of departure.

Stanley Olisa, Air Peace spokesperson, attributed the delay to unscheduled maintenance, clarifying the necessity of the turnaround due to Owerri’s status as a sunset airport, operating within limited hours.

Efforts to obtain further clarification on the decision to proceed with the flight despite Owerri’s operational constraints were unsuccessful.