Air Peace Earns Global Recognition for Safety Standards, Matches British Airways, KLM, Delta
Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest airline and a leading carrier in West and Central Africa, has been recognised for its adherence to international safety standards, placing it on equal footing with global aviation giants such as British Airways, KLM, and Delta Airlines.
This commendation was made by Dr Samson Fatokun, Area Manager for West and Central Africa at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), during the presentation of Air Peace’s sixth consecutive International Air Transport Association Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification.
Speaking at the event, Dr Fatokun highlighted the rigorous audit process Air Peace underwent, emphasising that the airline met the same stringent safety standards applied to its global counterparts.
“The standards that are given are the same as the British Airways, KLM, Delta. They are all assessed the same way. Findings done here are the same over there, which makes you stand at par with other airlines in the world when it comes to safety,” he stated.
Dr Fatokun praised Air Peace for its dedication to safety and operational excellence, noting that the achievement is particularly remarkable given the heightened expectations faced by Nigerian airlines.
“When you’re an airline in the first world, people expect you to do things and work, but when you come from Africa, they expect you to do more. When you come from Nigeria, the expectations are immense,” he explained.
He further described the IOSA certification as a significant milestone for Air Peace and a source of pride for Nigeria.
“Air Peace’s presence on the IOSA registry is a testament to its unwavering dedication to safety, operational excellence, and professionalism. This milestone is not just a victory for the airline but a pride for Nigeria. It highlights that local carriers can operate at the highest international safety levels,” he said.
IATA, which represents over 340 airlines responsible for 80% of global air traffic, emphasised that safety is the industry’s top priority.
Dr Fatokun explained that achieving IOSA certification requires meeting globally recognised standards audited by independent experts.
“Safety is not just about avoiding accidents but about maintaining processes certified to work safely. These practices are recognised globally and cannot be compromised,” he stated.
He warned that the IOSA audit is not an easy process, highlighting its continuous improvement to ensure adaptability and effectiveness.
“Safety is not cheap; accidents are costlier. With the right investment, safety can be guaranteed,” Dr Fatokun added.
The sixth IOSA certification solidifies Air Peace’s position as a leader in African aviation. It underscores the airline’s commitment to a deep-rooted safety culture, robust management systems, and continuous improvement.
Dr Fatokun encouraged other carriers across the continent to emulate Air Peace’s example, stating, “This milestone sets a new benchmark for safety in African aviation and inspires other carriers to strive for similar excellence.”
Air Peace’s consistent achievements in just a decade of operation have positioned it as a source of national pride and a beacon of hope for the Nigerian aviation industry, demonstrating that African airlines can compete on a global scale while maintaining the highest safety standards.
