The second batch of 320 Nigerians billed to arrive Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos on Tuesday from South Africa has been moved to Wednesday following a delay in securing landing permit from South African aviation authorities for Air Peace.
Chairman of the airline, Allen Onyema disclosed this in a telephone interview.
Onyema said following the late approval for landing rights the Boeing 777-300 will now depart Lagos for Johanesbourg midnight to arrive with the second of 320 Nigerians by noon Wednesday.
He said the airline was committed to the project to ensure it follows laid down procedures as set by South African authorities.
He told newsmen in an interview:” Air Peace less than an hour ago just secured landing rights permit from South African aviation authorities. Our aircraft will now depart by midnight today ( Tuesday ) to evacuate Nigerians already cleared to return.
The whole idea is to ensure the returnees arrive here during the day for enhanced logistics. Bringing in middle of the night may not be very convenient, that is why we moved it to Wednesday. ”
Scores of journalists, security agencies and others waiting at the airport had mobilized for the operations.