Passengers on several United Nigeria Airlines routes departing Abuja were left stranded on Thursday after a bird strike forced the grounding of one of the airline’s aircraft, leading to widespread flight cancellations and delays.
A video circulating online showed frustrated passengers protesting at the domestic wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, accusing the airline of poor communication and neglect.
Another clip captured the spokesperson of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, addressing the agitated crowd in an effort to restore calm.
A bird strike occurs when an aircraft collides with a bird—usually during takeoff or landing—and may cause anything from minor damage to severe engine failure.
When such incidents occur, airlines typically suspend operations involving the affected aircraft to allow for safety inspections.
In a statement posted on his verified X handle, Achimugu said the NCAA stepped in to de-escalate rising tensions at the terminal.
He confirmed that the airline’s aircraft suffered a bird strike and that the resulting cancellations were necessary for safety.
However, he noted that delayed communication from the airline worsened the situation.
“Passengers became irate, and some turned violent.
“One of them destroyed laptops belonging to the airline, assaulted staff, and injured a FAAN AVSEC officer,” he said.
According to him, the airline has agreed to offer passengers 15 per cent compensation on their next flight while rescheduling the Abuja–Owerri service for 10 a.m. the following day.
He added that the NCAA had directed the airline to contact passengers via email by 4 p.m., stressing that timely and transparent communication could have prevented the chaos.
Achimugu also reiterated that the NCAA has consistently warned airlines to improve customer engagement, particularly during the busy December travel period.
United Nigeria Airlines later confirmed the disruptions in a statement by its Corporate Communications Unit, attributing the cancellations to a bird strike suffered by one of its operating aircraft.
The airline said the affected aircraft had been grounded for mandatory technical checks, in line with strict safety protocols.
The statement assured passengers that the airline prioritises safety above all and appealed for patience.
“We sincerely apologise for the inconveniences this unforeseen development may cause to your travel plans.
“Our team is working diligently to minimise disruptions while providing timely updates and rebooking assistance,” the airline said.
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