A Lagos-bound Air Peace flight encountered a bird strike shortly before takeoff from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday, prompting a ramp return to ensure passenger safety.
The bird strike, which occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m., led to a safe disembarkation of all passengers, according to Air Peace’s Head of Corporate Communications, Ejike Ndiulo.
In aviation, a bird strike is a collision between a bird and an aircraft during takeoff, landing, or flight. Ndiulo confirmed that a replacement aircraft was immediately deployed to minimize disruptions, allowing passengers to continue their journey without extended delays.
“We appeal for the understanding of our valued passengers impacted by this development, as well as those on other flights that may experience delays,” the airline’s statement read. “At Air Peace, we are committed to providing safe, comfortable, and reliable air travel for all our passengers.”
Air Peace emphasized its dedication to safety and expressed gratitude to passengers for their patience during the unexpected delay.
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Many passengers expressed their fears on social media, describing the situation as chaotic, with some screaming in response to the abrupt halt. Inibehe Effiong, a human rights lawyer on board, highlighted concerns about the effectiveness of bird control measures at the airport and questioned whether bird detection radar technology was in use.
This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding bird strikes in aviation, which pose significant risks despite being relatively rare in terms of causing major accidents.
Credible News.ng
