Air Peace Replies NCAA, Says Bird Strike Triggers Abuja-London Flight Return

Air Peace Airline has responded to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), saying passengers on its Abuja–London flight were not abandoned. Still, they were properly cared for upon the aircraft’s return to base.

In a statement issued by the airline’s management, the carrier said the aircraft operating the Abuja-London (Heathrow) service made an air return to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport after the crew detected a windshield crack suspected to have been caused by a bird strike.

According to the airline, the decision to return to Abuja was taken in strict accordance with aviation safety protocols. “The aircraft safely returned to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where all passengers disembarked safely while our engineering team commenced the necessary technical checks on the aircraft,” the statement said.

Air Peace stressed that, contrary to reports suggesting passengers were stranded, no traveller was abandoned during the handling of the situation. The airline explained that passengers were immediately given alternative travel options, including flying out the same day via its Lagos-Gatwick service or departing the following day from Abuja to London.

“The majority of the passengers were flown to Lagos free of charge to join our Lagos–Gatwick flight, while others preferred to travel the next day from Abuja,” the airline said. It added that hotel accommodation was also provided for passengers who required it while arrangements were being made for their onward travel.

Air Peace maintained that reports portraying the incident as one in which passengers were stranded were inaccurate. “As a responsible airline, Air Peace maintains a strong and cooperative working relationship with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and remains fully committed to regulatory compliance, passenger protection and operational transparency,” the statement added.

The airline also expressed appreciation to passengers and the travelling public for their patience and understanding during the disruption. Air Peace reiterated that safety remains the cornerstone of its operations, pledging to continue upholding the highest safety standards while delivering reliable services across its domestic and international routes.

(LEADERSHIP)