United Nigeria Airlines has withdrawn one of its CRJ-900 aircraft from service following a bird strike during landing at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, marking the fifth such incident recorded by the carrier in the first four months of 2026.
Flight UN0579 had departed Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport en route to Abuja when the strike occurred. The airline confirmed the development in a statement made available to The PUNCH by its spokesperson, Chibuike Uloka, on Wednesday.
“In line with our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the aircraft has been immediately withdrawn from operations to undergo comprehensive technical inspections and any required maintenance before being returned to service,” the airline stated.
The carrier acknowledged that the grounding would affect flight schedules across its network and appealed for passenger patience. “Consequently, some flights across our network may not operate as scheduled; however, safety remains our highest priority. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this unforeseen development may cause to our passengers’ travel plans,” the statement added.
United Nigeria Airlines confirmed this incident represents the fifth bird strike involving its fleet since January 2026. The airline maintained that “each occurrence has been managed in full compliance with applicable aviation safety regulations and established operational procedures.”
Bird strikes remain a persistent challenge in Nigerian aviation. According to data from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Nigerian airports recorded 172 bird strike incidents in 2025, with Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja accounting for the highest frequencies. The Nigeria Airspace Management Agency has deployed various wildlife hazard management measures at major airports, including grass control, bird scaring devices, and regular patrols.
The airline reaffirmed its operational commitment, stating: “We appreciate the understanding of our valued passengers and reaffirm our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational reliability. We will continue to take all necessary measures to optimise our operations and exceed the expectations of our passengers.”
United Nigeria Airlines operates a fleet primarily comprising Embraer and Bombardier CRJ regional jets, serving domestic routes across Nigeria. The carrier commenced operations in 2021 and has since expanded to multiple destinations including Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Port Harcourt, and Asaba.
No injuries were reported in the latest incident, and passengers on the affected flight disembarked normally upon arrival in Abuja.
