The disruptions to flight operations at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, over the weekend were due to the unavailability of aviation fuel (Jet A1), one of the affected carriers, Air Peace Airline, has said.

In a statement yesterday on the development, the airline explained that, though the affected flights commenced operations, the initial delays to its Abuja operations were due to the unavailability of Jet A1. Once Jet A1 became available, the prevailing Visual Flight Rules (VFR) subsequently affected its scheduled Abuja-Maiduguri service.

According to the airline, although an extension had initially been granted for the flight, it became untenable by the time the aircraft was ready for boarding, as the flight could not operate beyond sunset.

Nevertheless, Air Peace insisted that passengers were informed of the delay and were served refreshments throughout the disruption.

It added that, following the cancellation of the flight, the affected passengers were provided with hotel accommodation, while arrangements were made for the flight the following day.

It expressed regret for the inconveniences caused to the passengers, assuring that their safety and well-being remained its priority.

A viral video on social media over the weekend showed some of the affected passengers expressing frustration over the delayed flight.