Two separate incidents, bird strike and jet blast hit United Nigeria airline operation on Sunday as it damaged two aircraft, leading to their withdrawal from operations.
The airline management in two separate statements said the jet blast incident involved one of its operating aircraft at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MM2), Lagos.
The airline explained that the aircraft, an Embraer 190, arrived from Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on Flight UN0503, scheduled for 8:40 a.m., and was parked at an open bay between two adjacent aircraft belonging to sister airlines.
While preparations were ongoing to board passengers for another scheduled flight, a nearby aircraft, having completed its own boarding process, commenced taxiing. At the same time, another aircraft was executing a pushback onto the taxi line.
During these simultaneous ground movements, the airline said the taxiing aircraft manoeuvred in a manner that generated significant jet blast within the ramp area.
“The force of the jet blast displaced a baggage trolley belonging to a ground handling company, which subsequently made contact with the United Nigeria Airlines aircraft preparing for Flight UN0500, scheduled for 12:00 hours. The impact resulted in damage to external components, including the antenna and the forward fuselage area near the nose landing gear.
“In adherence to our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for comprehensive inspection before returning to operations. United Nigeria Airlines remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards.
It apologized for any inconvenience this unforeseen development may cause to traveller, adding that its team is working diligently to minimize disruptions and provide support to all affected travelers.
In the second statement l, the airline said the incident affected an Airbus A320 operating Flight UN0509 from Asaba International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
“United Nigeria Airlines wishes to inform its valued passengers and the general public that, due to a bird strike on one of the engines of its operating Airbus A320 aircraft during Flight UN0509 from Asaba International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, scheduled for 12:00 hours on Sunday, 29th March, 2026, some flights across our network will not operate as scheduled.”
The airline added that the affected aircraft has also been withdrawn from service in accordance with safety protocols.
“In adherence to our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for a comprehensive inspection before returning to operations. United Nigeria Airlines remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards,” it stated.
