Air Peace names Onipe flight operations director, Paul-Ugochukwu chief pilot
- Air Peace has picked Captains James Adaviruku Onipe and Ikechukwu Paul-Ugochukwu to lead its flight operations from November 1, 2026.
- Onipe, who has flown for nearly 20 years, is currently the airline's Embraer 145 fleet manager and a trainer.
- Paul-Ugochukwu, a Boeing 777 instructor with 22 years in aviation, becomes chief pilot as two senior colleagues move up.
Air Peace will have two new men at the top of its flight operations from November 1, 2026. The airline said Captain James Adaviruku Onipe becomes Director of Flight Operations, while Captain Ikechukwu Paul-Ugochukwu takes over as Chief Pilot.
Air Peace said the appointments are part of its plan to keep experienced hands in charge as it grows its operations.
Who are the two captains?
Onipe has spent close to 20 years flying, and has worked on several aircraft types. At the moment he manages the airline's Embraer 145 fleet and also serves as a trainer and check airman, the role that tests whether pilots meet required standards.
His background covers flight safety, keeping crews sharp, day-to-day operational efficiency and staying on the right side of aviation regulations.
Paul-Ugochukwu has 22 years in the aviation industry. He is currently a Boeing 777 type rating instructor and check airman, meaning he trains pilots on the wide-body aircraft and signs off on their competence.
Air Peace said the changes reflect its commitment to recognising professional experience, supporting career progression and building leadership from within the organisation.
Why it matters to travellers
For the ordinary passenger, the people in these two seats matter more than their titles suggest. The Director of Flight Operations and the Chief Pilot sit at the centre of safety and discipline in the air, from how crews are trained to how aircraft are cleared to fly.
Air Peace is Nigeria's biggest carrier and flies both domestic routes and international destinations, including long-haul service on the Boeing 777. A stable leadership team in flight operations is part of what keeps schedules running and fares predictable in a market where one airline's disruption can push up prices across the board.
The appointments also follow movement at the top. The outgoing Director of Flight Operations, Captain Augustin Kamano, and the former Chief Pilot, Captain Martin Okunpolor, have both been moved to higher roles within the Air Peace Group.
Air Peace said the handover has already started and congratulated the two captains on their new positions.
What happens next
The changes take effect on November 1, 2026. The airline said the handover process has commenced.
