United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed a third bird strike incident involving one of its aircraft within a 48-hour period, raising fresh concerns over aviation safety and wildlife hazard management in Nigeria’s airspace.
In a press statement issued on April 17, 2026, the airline disclosed that the latest incident occurred during the take-off of Flight UNO561 from Benin City Airport to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The flight, scheduled for 16:20 on Thursday, April 16, 2026, suffered damage to the aircraft’s nose landing gear door linkage following the bird strike.
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The airline noted that the incident brings the total number of its aircraft grounded due to bird strikes to three within two days, and marks the seventh such occurrence recorded by the carrier in 2026 alone. It described the trend as “extremely concerning and unacceptable,” particularly given its implications for operational safety and reliability.
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United Nigeria Airlines stated that, in line with its strict safety protocols, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service to undergo detailed technical inspections and necessary maintenance before returning to operations. The airline clarified that while multiple bird strike incidents may occur, it reports only those that result in significant damage requiring aircraft grounding.
The carrier also called on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to intensify wildlife hazard management measures across major airports to mitigate the growing risk of bird strikes.
“We sincerely apologize to our valued passengers for any inconvenience caused by these disruptions,” the airline said, appealing for understanding as it works to support affected travelers and minimize further disruptions.
