By Emmanuel Obisue
United Nigeria Airlines has announced disruptions across its flight network after one of its aircraft suffered a bird strike on Sunday.
The airline disclosed in a statement that the incident involved Flight UN0509, which departed Asaba International Airport en route to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at about 12:00 p.m.
According to the airline, the bird strike affected one of the engines of its Airbus A320 aircraft, forcing operational adjustments.
“Due to a bird strike on one of the engines of our operating Airbus A320 aircraft during Flight UN0509, some flights across our network will not operate as scheduled,” the statement said.
The airline added that, in line with standard safety procedures, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for a comprehensive inspection before it can return to operations.
It apologised to passengers for the inconvenience caused, assuring them that efforts are ongoing to minimise disruptions and provide necessary support.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this unforeseen development may cause to travel plans and appeal for the understanding and patience of our valued passengers,” the statement added.
The development marks another in a series of bird strike incidents involving the airline in recent weeks. The latest prior case occurred at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where an Airbus A320 operating Flight UN0519 from Abuja to Lagos reportedly encountered birds during takeoff.
United Nigeria Airlines, however, reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards while working to reduce the impact of such incidents on passengers.
