Again, United Nigeria Airlines Grounds Airbus After 6th Bird Strike In 3 Months

United Nigeria Airlines has grounded one of its Airbus A320-200 aircraft following its second bird strike incident in the last 24 hours and the sixth in three months.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, and signed by the airline’s Public Relations Office, the carrier said the latest incident occurred during landing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on a flight from Port Harcourt.

“United Nigeria Airlines regrets to inform our valued passengers and the general public of yet another bird strike involving one of our Airbus A320-200 aircraft,” the statement read.

The airline disclosed that the aircraft, operating Flight UN0515 scheduled for 15:45 hours, sustained impact to the nose section upon landing.

“The incident occurred on landing at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, from Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC)… and affected the nose section of the aircraft,” it said.

It noted that the latest occurrence marks the sixth bird strike involving its aircraft this year, describing the trend as troubling.

“While this marks the sixth bird strike involving our aircraft so far in 2026—an occurrence we find deeply concerning and unacceptable due to its implications for aviation safety and operational stability,” the airline stated.

According to the airline, the aircraft has been withdrawn from service in line with strict safety standards to undergo detailed inspections and maintenance.

“The aircraft has… been immediately withdrawn from operations to undergo thorough technical inspections and any required maintenance before returning to service,” it added.

The airline also revealed that the development brings the number of grounded aircraft to two within 24 hours.

It warned that some flights across its network may be disrupted or delayed, while appealing for passengers’ understanding.

“Some flights across our network may experience disruptions or may not operate as scheduled… as safety remains our top priority,” the statement said.

The airline assured passengers that efforts were ongoing to minimise disruptions and provide necessary support.

“Our team is working diligently to minimise disruptions and provide support to all affected travellers,” it added.

United Nigeria Airlines reaffirmed its commitment to safety, comfort, and reliability for all passengers.