United Nigeria Airlines has reported a fourth bird strike involving its Airbus A320 aircraft in less than two weeks, prompting the temporary withdrawal of two aircraft from service for comprehensive safety inspections.
The latest incident occurred on Sunday, during the take-off of Flight UN0519 from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The airline disclosed that the strike affected one of the engines, necessitating the grounding of the aircraft to uphold strict safety standards.
Birds seen stuck in the engine section of a United Nigeria Airlines Airbus A320 after the incident in Abuja…Credit: United Nigeria Airlines
In a statement signed by 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Relations Office, it said, “In line with our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for comprehensive technical inspections before returning to operations.
“United Nigeria Airlines wishes to inform its valued passengers and the general public of a second bird strike in less than 24-hours, and the fourth since January 2026, has occurred on one of the engines of another Airbus A320 aircraft during the take-off of Flight UN0519 scheduled for 12:00 hours from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Sunday, 15 February 2026
“This brings the total number of Airbus aircraft withdrawn from service in less than 24 hours to two. As a result, some flights across our network will be disrupted and may not operate as earlier scheduled.
“This is indeed another bird Strike too many, however, we sincerely apologies for any inconveniences this unforeseen development may cause to your travel plans and kindly seek the understanding and patience of our valued passengers and the general public”, the statement partly read.
Birds lodged in the engine area of a United Nigeria Airlines Airbus A320 following a reported bird strike incident…Credit: United Nigeria Airlines
The airline apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers, adding that its teams were working to minimise disruption and provide support to those affected.
This incident follows a previous bird strike on Saturday, 14 February, on Flight UN0523 from Asaba to Lagos.
United Nigeria Airlines also reported an earlier bird strike on 12 February in Port Harcourt, Flight UN0514/614, after landing from Lagos. While no visible damage was observed, precautionary inspections were conducted to ensure the aircraft’s airworthiness.
The airline reiterated its commitment to safety, stating that “safety will never be compromised, as it remains the foundation of our operations.”
