Saudi Arabian authorities abruptly canceled the visas of 264 passengers airlifted from Lagos and Kano to Jeddah on Sunday.
The flight, operated by Air Peace, departed from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, via Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, and landed at King Abdul-Aziz International Airport, Jeddah. Despite the passengers undergoing thorough screening, including the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) during check-in in Nigeria, the Saudi authorities ordered the airline to return them to Nigeria, alleging visa cancellations.
Daily Trusts Sources suggest a potential strategy to hinder Air Peace's direct flight to Jeddah, which competes with other foreign airlines offering higher fares.
The Nigerian embassy intervened, leading to Saudi authorities reducing the number of passengers to be returned to 177. Most of these passengers were traveling for Umrah (lesser Hajj).
The incident raises questions about diplomatic relations and competition on the route, coinciding with President Bola Tinubu's recent visit to Saudi Arabia. Notably, Air Peace's direct flight to Jeddah has provided an alternative to Saudia, the Saudi Arabian flag carrier, which previously operated the route.
