Air Peace co-pilot David Bernard has rejected the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) report alleging traces of alcohol and drugs were found in his system.

The report followed the July 13, 2025, runway overrun incident at Port Harcourt Airport, Rivers State.

Speaking on Arise Television on Friday, Bernard denied the claim, insisting he neither drinks nor smokes.

“It was good weather and good visibility, everything was going well and smooth until 500 feet when the captain disconnected the autopilot to fly the plane for the approach.

So, as he disconnected the autopilot at 500 feet, he was becoming high in the approach. I advised him that, Commander, you are high for this approach,” he said.

Bernard explained that his worry increased because the approach remained unstable.

The NSIB report had accused Air Peace crew members of alcohol and drug use, a finding the airline has strongly disputed.