United Nigeria withdraws two aircraft over bird strikes, says flights will be disrupted

United Nigeria Airlines says flights across its network will be disrupted after two of its aircraft were withdrawn from service following bird strikes.

In a statement on Sunday, the airline said it recorded its second bird strike in less than 24 hours, marking the fourth incident since January 2026.According to the statement, the latest strike affected flight UN0519 during take-off from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport.“United Nigeria Airlines wishes to inform its valued passengers and the general public of a second bird strike in less than 24-hours, and the fourth since January 2026 — has occurred on one of the engines of another Airbus A320 aircraft during the take-off of Flight UN0519 scheduled for 12:00 hours from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Sunday, 15 February 2026,” the statement reads.

“In line with our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for comprehensive technical inspections before returning to operations.

“This brings the total number of Airbus aircraft withdrawn from service in less than 24-hours to TWO (2). As a result, some flights across our network will be disrupted and may not operate as earlier scheduled.”The airline apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers, describing the development as “another bird strike too many”.United Nigeria said efforts are ongoing to minimise disruptions and provide support to affected travellers, reaffirming its commitment to upholding the highest safety standards.

United Nigeria withdraws two aircraft over bird strikes, says flights will be disrupted | TheCable