BIRD STRIKE INCIDENT MARKS FOURTH FOR UNITED NIGERIA AIRLINES IN 2026
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed its fourth bird strike in under two weeks, involving an Airbus A320 aircraft, leading to the temporary withdrawal of two planes from service for thorough safety inspections.
The most recent incident occurred on Sunday during the take-off of Flight UN0519 from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
The airline said the strike impacted one of the aircraft’s engines, prompting its grounding to ensure strict adherence to safety standards.
Birds were observed lodged in the engine section of a United Nigeria Airlines Airbus A320 following the incident in Abuja. Credit: United Nigeria Airlines
In a statement from the airline’s Public Relations Office, it said, “In line with our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for thorough technical inspections before resuming operations.”
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United Nigeria Airlines has informed passengers and the public that a second bird strike within 24 hours—and the fourth since January 2026—occurred on one of the engines of another Airbus A320. The incident took place during the take-off of Flight UN0519, scheduled for 12:00 hours on Sunday, February 15, 2026, from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
The airline noted that this brings the total number of Airbus aircraft withdrawn from service in less than 24 hours to two, resulting in disruptions across its network and the possible cancellation or rescheduling of some flights.
“This is yet another bird strike too many. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this unforeseen event may cause to your travel plans and ask for the understanding and patience of our valued passengers and the general public,” the airline said in part.
Birds were found lodged in the engine of a United Nigeria Airlines Airbus A320 following a reported bird strike incident. Credit: United Nigeria Airlines
The airline apologised for the inconvenience to passengers, assuring that teams were working to minimise disruptions and provide support to those affected.
The incident follows a previous bird strike on Saturday, February 14, involving Flight UN0523 from Asaba to Lagos.
United Nigeria Airlines also reported an earlier bird strike on February 12 in Port Harcourt on Flight UN0514/614, after landing from Lagos. While no visible damage was observed, precautionary inspections were carried out to ensure the aircraft’s airworthiness.
The airline reiterated its commitment to safety, stating, “Safety will never be compromised, as it remains the foundation of our operations.”
Passengers affected by the disruptions were advised to reach the airline through official channels, including info@flyunitednigeria.com or +234 9069360202, for assistance.
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