The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has ordered an investigation into the oxygen mask incident on Air Peace Lagos-Enugu flight last Friday.
It would be recalled that Air Peace flight operating from Lagos to Enugu experienced a change in cabin pressure
The airlines said in a statement that the flight crew had to do the normal technical manoeuvre by descending to a level comfortable enough for passengers on board.
“We, however, observed cases of some passengers who did not properly fit their oxygen masks. A few others, perhaps out of panic, pulled too hard on the oxygen masks, causing the equipment to snap. This led to the unfortunate claims that there was no flow of oxygen from the masks.
“While it is quite expected and understandable that passengers would panic on occurrence of incidents such as a change in cabin pressure, the claims of a near-crash were a regrettable misrepresentation of facts which really should not be. The aircraft was ferried from Enugu back to Lagos in less than an hour of safely landing at destination. Certainly, no crew would fly an aircraft that is not airworthy,” said the airline.
However, NCAA said in a statement by its spokesman, Mr. Sam Adurogboye that the investigation on the incident will be carried out in line with standards and international best practices.
“The investigation will be thorough and will include the review of the videos making the rounds in the social media.
“The investigation will be conducted in line with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig.CARs) 2015. At the conclusion of the investigation, the recommendations will be fully implemented.
“The NCAA wishes to assure all passengers that all aircraft operating in Nigeria are airworthy. Our Ramp inspections have been strengthened accordingly with the seasonal increase in the volume of passengers.
“All operating airlines are therefore warned to observe the Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs) as any infractions will be treated in line with the provision of the Regulations,” said NCAA.
