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A scheduled Air Peace flight from Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to Lagos was forced into an emergency stop on the runway early Thursday morning due to a bird strike.
Passengers, already in takeoff preparation, were jolted as the plane came to an abrupt halt, sparking brief panic among some on board, with a few reportedly crying out in fear.
Naija News gathered that the incident, which occurred around 6:30 am, left many passengers anxious until they were safely evacuated.
Nigerian human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong shared his experience on Facebook, noting that the captain informed passengers that the emergency was due to a bird strike.
“We have been deboarded to await either a replacement or repair of the aircraft.
“Thankfully, whatever happened did not occur after takeoff. It would have been scarier,” he said.
Effiong also questioned if the airport’s domestic wing has bird detection radar to prevent such incidents.
He added, “I am wondering whether there is a bird detection radar tracking technology at the domestic wing of the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport?”
Air Peace swiftly addressed the situation by deboarding passengers and arranging a replacement aircraft to resume the flight.
When SaharaReporters reached for comments, Head of Corporate Communications at Air Peace, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, confirmed the bird strike, noting that the flight returned to the ramp as a safety precaution and that all passengers were able to disembark without issues.
“We have deployed a replacement aircraft for the affected flight in order to minimise disruptions, thus ensuring that passengers continue their journeys promptly.
“We appeal for the understanding of our valued passengers impacted by this development, as well as those on other flights that may experience delays,” Dr. Ndiulo stated, adding that Air Peace remains committed to prioritizing passenger safety and comfort.
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