United Nigeria Airlines Withdraws Aircraft after Bird Strikes During Take-off
United Nigeria Airlines has withdrawn one of its aircraft after encountering a bird strike in one of its engines during takeoff.
According to the airline, it was the second strike in less than 24 hours and the fourth since January 2026.
The recent incident 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, February 15, 2026.
The affected aircraft is undergoing comprehensive technical inspections before returning to operations, it announced in a statement.
“This brings the total number of Airbus aircraft withdrawn from service in less than 24 hours to TWO (2).”
It stated that the situation will disrupt some flights across its network.
“This is indeed another bird Strike too many; however, we sincerely apologise for any inconveniences this unforeseen development may cause to your travel plans and kindly seek the understanding and patience of our valued passengers and the general public. Our team is working diligently to minimise disruptions and to provide support to all affected travellers.”
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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