By Sarah Sam Adda
Air Peace has accused Latvia-based SmartLynx Airlines of abruptly withdrawing three wet-leased aircraft without notice, causing over $15 million in damages and widespread flight disruptions.
Chief Commercial Officer Nowel Ngala said in Lagos that the move breached industry standards and the leasing agreement, noting that the aircraft had already been scheduled for operations.
He assured affected passengers of reprotection and stressed that London flights were not affected.
Ngala explained that Air Peace opted for the wet-lease arrangement because 13 of its aircraft are undergoing maintenance abroad.
He alleged that SmartLynx withdrew four aircraft despite receiving full payment and over $1 million in security deposits, claiming the company knew the rightful owners planned to take back the aircraft over SmartLynx’s payment defaults.
According to him, SmartLynx still holds more than $5 million belonging to Air Peace, accusing the airline of “fraudulent” and “unprofessional” conduct.
He said other airlines leasing from SmartLynx have reported similar experiences.
Air Peace said it has released the affected aircraft to their owners and is demanding a refund.
Ngala recalled a previous incident in which Tunisia’s Syphax Airlines allegedly disappeared with over $2 million belonging to the Nigerian carrier.
The airline said the recurring incidents highlight the risks Nigerian airlines face in international leasing.
It added that some Air Peace aircraft have completed maintenance and will return to service soon, with full operations expected to resume next week.
Air Peace apologised to passengers and pledged improved safeguards against future disruptions.
