Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline, has announced a stringent new policy aimed at curbing unruly passenger behaviour, effective January 2026. Allen Onyema, the airline’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated unequivocally that the carrier will no longer tolerate disruptive conduct, signaling a significant shift in its approach to in-flight discipline and passenger management. This decisive move comes in response to a growing number of incidents that have reportedly compromised safety and operational efficiency on board.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Mr. Onyema detailed a range of unacceptable behaviours frequently observed on Air Peace flights. These include instances of passengers illicitly upgrading themselves to business class, consuming personal alcohol excessively, and subsequently threatening cabin crew and fellow travellers. He recounted a specific incident involving individuals who reportedly brought three bottles of rum onto a flight, causing distress and disruption to others on board.
Mr. Onyema expressed profound frustration over what he perceives as a double standard in passenger conduct. He highlighted that Nigerian passengers often engage in behaviours on domestic flights that they would never attempt on international carriers or in other countries. This disparity, he argued, suggests an implicit condoning of such actions within the local system, which Air Peace is now determined to challenge through direct legal action.
The airline’s CEO made it clear that from the beginning of 2026, all incidents of unruly behaviour will be escalated beyond internal airline protocols. Air Peace intends to pursue legal prosecution against offenders, taking them to court to face the full force of the law. This marks a departure from previous approaches, indicating a zero-tolerance stance designed to deter future infractions and reinforce respect for airline rules and staff.
This policy shift by Air Peace aligns with a broader global trend in the aviation industry, where airlines worldwide are grappling with a surge in unruly passenger incidents. Reports from international aviation bodies indicate a significant increase in disruptive behaviour, ranging from verbal abuse to physical assaults, prompting carriers to re-evaluate and tighten their enforcement mechanisms to protect crew and ensure passenger safety.
Such incidents not only create an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe environment for other passengers but also significantly disrupt flight operations. They can lead to delays, diversions, and increased stress on cabin crew, who are primarily responsible for passenger safety and comfort. Air Peace’s new policy underscores its commitment to maintaining order and ensuring a secure, pleasant travel experience for everyone aboard its aircraft.
Passengers are now effectively on notice regarding the serious repercussions of misconduct. Beyond potential civil lawsuits from the airline, offenders could face a range of penalties, including substantial fines, placement on no-fly lists, and even criminal charges, depending on the severity of their actions. This move highlights the airline’s resolve to enforce discipline and hold individuals accountable for their behaviour.
The proactive measure taken by Air Peace could set a significant precedent for the Nigerian aviation industry. Other domestic airlines, which often face similar challenges with passenger conduct, may consider adopting comparable stringent policies. This could lead to a sector-wide re-evaluation of passenger management and enforcement protocols, fostering a more disciplined air travel environment across the nation.
The effectiveness of Air Peace’s new policy will largely depend on the robust support and cooperation from relevant aviation regulatory bodies and the Nigerian justice system. Efficient and timely processing of legal cases stemming from these incidents will be crucial in demonstrating the seriousness of the airline’s commitment and in establishing a credible deterrent against future misbehaviour.
Ultimately, Air Peace anticipates that its firm stance will cultivate a culture of greater respect and compliance among passengers. By clearly defining boundaries and enforcing consequences, the airline aims to enhance the overall quality, safety, and reliability of air travel within Nigeria and on its international routes, ensuring a more harmonious journey for all stakeholders.
