Second bird strike in one day disrupts United Nigeria operations

By Dickson Omobola

United Nigeria Airlines has suffered a second bird strike in less than 24 hours.

The first incident occurred yesterday when the airline’s Airbus A320 aircraft was involved in a bird strike during the take-off of Flight UN0523 from Asaba International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, scheduled for 17:00.

The second incident occurred today 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.

The airline said some flights across its network would be disrupted and might not operate as earlier scheduled.

The airline’s public relations office said: “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, February 15, 2026.

“In line with our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for comprehensive technical inspections before returning to operations. This brings the total number of Airbus aircraft withdrawn from service in less than 24-hours to two.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. United Nigeria Airlines remains firmly committed to upholding the highest safety standards.

“This is indeed another bird strike too many, however, we sincerely apologize 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. Our team is working diligently to minimize disruptions and to provide support to all affected travellers.”

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