A touching video showing the graceful retirement of Captain Alphonse Aarts, a United States-trained aviator and one of Air Peace’s longest-serving pilots, has gone viral—eliciting an outpouring of admiration from Nigerians across social media platforms.
Captain Aarts, widely regarded as a pillar of professionalism within the airline, was celebrated by colleagues and aviation enthusiasts alike after completing a distinguished career spanning several decades. His departure from the cockpit marks not just the end of a chapter, but a broader celebration of loyalty, institutional excellence, and career longevity at one of Nigeria’s foremost airlines.
The viral footage, which captures emotional farewell scenes among staff and crew members, has been widely shared online, with many users commending the airline’s commitment to recognising long-serving employees.
On X (formerly Twitter), one user, @James__Ade, wrote: “Indeed, Air Peace is one multinational company that supports career growth and success. I think that’s the secret of the loyalty of their staff.”
Another user, @SamsonUgoChuks, added: “From my findings, Air Peace pays keen attention and interest to the welfare and success of their staff careers. This proves that Air Peace is a good company.”
For many observers, the tribute to Captain Aarts was not merely a personal celebration, but a reflection of the broader values fostered by the airline’s leadership. Several commentators linked the company’s reputation for staff development and welfare to its founder and chairman, Dr Allen Onyema, who is frequently praised for his emphasis on integrity, humility, and national service.
While tributes continue to pour in from within and outside the aviation community, Captain Aarts’ story has become emblematic of the potential within Nigeria’s private sector when talent is nurtured and excellence recognised.
His career journey, from international training to decades of service with a Nigerian carrier, now serves as an inspiration for young aviation enthusiasts across the country and beyond.
Watch the full video below:
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