NCAA Intervention Secures Air Peace Refund for Stranded Jamaica Travelers

Air Peace has agreed to refund passengers affected by a recent travel disruption. The issue left many stranded Nigeria-bound passengers in the Caribbean. This decision follows direct intervention by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Michael Achimugu confirmed the resolution on Friday. He is the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection. Achimugu noted the refund is a "goodwill gesture" from the airline. This followed a mediation call with Air Peace Chairman, Allen Onyema.

Background to the Air Peace Travel Disruption

The controversy centered on a December 21, 2025, flight. Passengers were booked for a Lagos to Jamaica flight. The original route included a transit stop via Antigua. Air Peace rerouted the flight to Barbados instead.

The airline stated many passengers lacked necessary transit visas for Antigua. They claimed travelers were offered full refunds in Lagos. Air Peace maintains that passengers voluntarily chose the Barbados rerouting.

However, some passengers alleged they were coerced into the change. Upon arrival, 25 passengers were detained and deported. Barbadian immigration cited issues like insufficient funds and lack of onward tickets. In total, 67 passengers were eventually allowed entry to Jamaica.

Regulatory Intervention and Consumer Protection

The Barbados deportation controversy drew regulatory scrutiny. The NCAA urged a settlement to protect the industry’s image. The regulator is prioritizing a peaceful passenger rights settlement.

Nigerian aviation is governed by strict rules. NCAA consumer protection is outlined in Part 19 of the Civil Aviation Regulations. These rules cover compensation for delays, cancellations, and refunds. The NCAA is responsible for enforcing these provisions.

• The airline agreed to bear the financial loss.
• This was done despite claiming no legal fault.

Achimugu clarified that no evidence of coercion exists yet. The refund is seen as a move to resolve the issue quickly.

Industry Impact and Future Action

The NCAA is still taking regulatory action. A Letter of Investigation (LOI) is proceeding against the airline. This aims to ensure this type of Air Peace travel disruption does not happen again. Sanctions may still apply if breaches of consumer protection rules are found.

This incident highlights the risks of complex international air travel. Airlines must ensure passengers have correct documentation for all transit points. The event underscores the importance of strong consumer protection in global aviation. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) promotes global standards for passenger care. Affected passengers await a formal schedule from Air Peace to claim their money. Read more commercial aviation news at flying.flights.