United Nigeria Airlines Records Fifth Bird Strike Since January, Flight Disruptions Expected
United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed another bird strike incident involving one of its aircraft, marking the fifth such occurrence since the beginning of 2026. The latest event took place on Tuesday as Flight UN0579, a CRJ-900 aircraft operating from Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, was landing in the nation's capital.
In a statement issued by the airline's public relations officer, Chibuike Uloka, the carrier confirmed that the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for comprehensive technical inspections and any necessary maintenance.
"In line with our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the aircraft has been immediately withdrawn from operations to undergo comprehensive technical inspections and any required maintenance before being returned to service," the statement read.
Uloka cautioned that the operational adjustment could lead to schedule disruptions across the airline's network. "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," he added.
The airline emphasised that while this marks the fifth bird strike involving its fleet since January, each incident has been managed in full compliance with applicable aviation safety regulations and established operational procedures.
The recurring frequency of bird strikes at Nigerian airports has drawn growing concern from aviation stakeholders. Speaking on the broader issue, ornithologist Jalo Muhammad attributed the phenomenon to environmental conditions surrounding airport facilities.
"Usually, birds are highly mobile, and this makes them an incredible creature. They are always attracted to the habitat," Muhammad explained. "If the airport is around a big wetland area, there will definitely be an abundance of birds, which may lead to bird strikes. In grassland areas, there are a lot of rodents which draw the attention of certain birds."
He further noted that without proper environmental management, airport activities can inadvertently attract avian wildlife. "Even though birds do not like noise, the ones that settle around an airport area are good adapters. No matter the changes made around them, they will adapt as long as there is food around them," Muhammad stated.