In a statement released on Saturday by the airline's Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo, Air Peace clarified that the flight experienced turbulence due to thunderstorms as it approached Abuja.
The statement emphasized that adhering to stringent global aviation safety protocols, "our crew activated appropriate safety measures and held in a holding pattern until weather conditions improved."
This explanation follows complaints from social media users on Saturday who noted the aircraft remained airborne for an extended period before finally landing.
It is understood that a holding pattern is a standard aviation procedure where an aircraft is instructed to fly a designated course around a specific point while awaiting clearance from air traffic control to continue its intended route, approach, or landing. This measure is typically implemented due to factors such as airport congestion, weather disruptions, or other operational issues that could compromise safety during landing. Essentially, a holding pattern serves as a temporary airborne waiting zone.
Air Peace's statement further assured the public, "We are pleased to confirm that the aircraft landed safely and the passengers disembarked normally. Air Peace is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety across all our operations."