United Nigeria Airlines has grounded one of its aircraft after a bird strike during the landing of Flight UN0579 from Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The incident, which occurred at approximately 18:15 hours on Tuesday, prompted the airline to immediately withdraw the CRJ-900 aircraft from service for comprehensive technical inspections and necessary maintenance in accordance with its safety protocols.
In a statement, the airline’s Public Relations Office confirmed that the affected aircraft will remain out of operation until it meets all safety standards before returning to service. The grounding has led to potential disruptions across the airline’s network, with some flights likely to be rescheduled. United Nigeria Airlines emphasized that passenger safety remains its highest priority and apologized for any inconvenience caused by the unforeseen development.
This marks the fifth bird strike involving the airline’s aircraft since January 2026. Each occurrence has been managed in full compliance with aviation safety regulations and established operational procedures. The airline reassured passengers of its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational reliability, pledging to take all necessary measures to optimize operations and meet passenger expectations.
Bird strikes are a common aviation hazard, particularly in regions with significant bird populations near airports. Such incidents can pose risks to aircraft during takeoff and landing, prompting airlines to follow strict protocols to ensure safety. United Nigeria Airlines’ swift response underscores its adherence to international aviation standards in addressing such challenges.
