An Abuja to Lagos bound Airpeace flight has been halted as a result of a bird strike which occured while the aircraft was moving along the runway before taking off.
A passenger onboard , Inibehe Effiong, a Public Interest and Human Rights Lawyer, who posted this X handle while seeking intervention from relevant aviation agencies said the incident occurred at 6:30 a.m. on 15th November , 2024 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Effiong explained that all passengers were deboarded while they awaited a replacement or repair of the aircraft.He emphasised the importance of a bird detection radar system at the airport.
The post reads” While taxiing on the runway and just before taking off, our @flyairpeace flight from Abuja to Lagos scheduled for 6:30 a.m. today was stopped forcefully, resulting in panic and screams by some passengers.
“The captain attributed the incident to a bird strike. We have been deboarded to await either a replacement or repair of the aircraft.
“Thankfully, whatever happened did not occur after takeoff. It would have been scarier.
“I am wondering whether there is a bird detection radar tracking technology at the domestic wing of the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.”
About 30 minutes later Effiong posted that the aircraft had been replaced. “The faulty aircraft has been replaced. We’re boarding now.”
The Airline’s Head of Corporate Communications , Dr Ejike Nduilo who responded to the situation in a statement said the passengers were deboarded to ensure safety while another aircraft was provided.
He said” We wish to inform our esteemed passengers that our Abuja -Lagos 6:30 flight experienced a bird strike before take-off prompting a ramp return as a safety measure.All passengers disembarked normally.”
“We have deployed a replacement aircraft for the affected flight in order to minimise disruptions, thus ensuring that passengers continue their journeys promptly.
“We appeal for the understanding of our valued passengers impacted by this development, as well as those on other flights that may experience delays.
“At Air Peace, we are committed to providing safe, comfortable, and reliable air travel for all our passengers.” he said.
