By Cosmas Okereafor
In a strategic move to strengthen leadership capacity, deepen operational expertise and sustain its growth trajectory, the West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has elevated Captains James Adaviruku Onipe and Ikechukwu Paul-Ugochukwu to the positions of Director of Flight Operations (DFO) and Chief Pilot (CP), respectively.Their promotion becomes effective from November 1, 2026. The duo elevations underscore the airline’s commitment to developing experienced aviation professionals, strengthening its leadership structure and sustaining operational quality and excellence. Captain Onipe is an accomplished airline pilot with almost two decades of flying experience across multiple aircraft fleets. Currently, he is Air Peace’s Embraer 145 Fleet Manager and Trainer/Check Airman. His experience spans flight safety, crew proficiency, operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.Also, Captain Paul-Ugochukwu brings to fore 22 years of aviation industry experience to his new role. He currently serves as a Boeing 777 Type Rating Instructor and Check Airman, contributing to pilot training, technical proficiency and the maintenance of operational standards.
The appointments came on the heels of the elevation of the outgoing Director of Flight Operations, Captain Augustin Kamano, and former Chief Pilot, Captain Martin Okunpolor, to higher positions within the Air Peace Group. Their new appointments reflect the airline’s commitment to recognising experience, facilitating career progression and strengthening its leadership pipeline.As the handover process commences, Air Peace remains focused on nurturing aviation talent, reinforcing professional standards and building the leadership capacity required to support its expanding operations.The airline congratulates Captains Onipe and Paul-Ugochukwu on their new appointments and wish them success as they assume these pivotal responsibilities, designed to advance Air Peace’s operational status that continues to soar.
