The airline, in a statement issued on Thursday, said the suspension affects all scheduled flights operating to the airport, noting that the decision was taken due to circumstances beyond its control.
Air Peace expressed regret over the disruption, appealing to affected passengers to remain patient as aviation authorities work to restore normal airport operations.
The airline said, “Air Peace wishes to inform its valued customers and the general public that all flights to and from Benin Airport have been temporarily suspended today following the closure of the airport’s runway due to a runway incursion.”
It added, “The temporary suspension and cancellation of affected flights are necessitated by circumstances beyond the airline’s control. We sincerely regret the inconvenience this disruption may cause and appeal to all affected passengers for their patience and understanding as the relevant airport authorities work to restore normal operations.”
The suspension followed an incident involving an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft operating Flight 4264 from Lagos to Benin, which experienced a runway excursion while landing at the Benin Airport on Thursday.
The aircraft reportedly overshot the end of Runway 05 during the landing process, prompting the temporary closure of the runway and disruption of flight operations at the airport.
Following the incident, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) commenced an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the occurrence.
The bureau confirmed that all passengers and crew members on board the aircraft were safe, stating that the 63 passengers and five crew members had been properly accounted for, with no injuries recorded.
According to the NSIB, investigators have begun gathering relevant information, and a preliminary report on the incident is expected to be released within 30 days in accordance with aviation safety regulations.
The runway closure is expected to remain in effect until airport authorities complete necessary assessments and restore safe flight operations.