United Nigeria Airlines Grounds Aircraft Over Bird Strikes

On February 15, 2026, United Nigeria Airlines announced the grounding of two aircraft following bird strikes that disrupted its domestic flight operations. The incidents occurred during the departure procedures of flight UN0519 from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

This marked the second bird strike within a 24-hour period and the fourth incident involving the airline's Airbus fleet in January 2026. In response to the bird strike, the airline immediately withdrew the affected aircraft from service in accordance with its strict safety protocols.

A comprehensive technical inspection was initiated to assess the aircraft's condition and ensure their airworthiness before returning to operation. Bird strikes remain a significant safety concern in global aviation, particularly for airports located near wetland areas with heavy bird activity, despite aircraft engines being designed to withstand such strikes according to international aviation standards.