Air Peace decries Smartlynx aircraft withdrawal
Air Peace has accused foreign lessor SmartLynx of breaching contract terms by withdrawing three wet-leased aircraft without notice, resulting in flight disruptions and financial losses exceeding 15 million dollars. Chief Commercial Officer Nowel Ngala stated the carrier paid over five million dollars in advance to SmartLynx, which allegedly knew the aircraft owners would reclaim them due to outstanding payment disputes, while 13 company planes remain overseas for scheduled maintenance.
The airline previously lost more than two million dollars when Tunisian carrier Syphax Airlines disappeared with funds after claiming aircraft required servicing, eventually declaring bankruptcy without returning equipment or money. Air Peace has released three contested planes to rightful owners and expects two serviced aircraft to restore full route operations, with London services continuing uninterrupted.
