A bird strike has disrupted Air Peace airline flight from Lagos to Gatwick international airport in London, a development which raised concerns over delays and welfare conditions of the passengers
Penpushing reports that management of the airline said, the incident, which occurred on Friday, forced the cancellation of the flight after the aircraft was grounded for safety checks, in line with aviation regulations.
The Air Peace airline authorities had earlier in the day, announced that its Gatwick–Lagos service was affected by a bird strike, describing the situation as an unforeseen disruption.
“We wish to inform our esteemed passengers that our London (Gatwick)–Lagos service today experienced a bird strike,” the airline said, noting that the aircraft had been withdrawn from service for “comprehensive inspection and necessary checks.”
Penpushing further reports that, the situation, however, drew public attention after a video shared by Nollywood actress Funke Akindele on her official X page, who was among the passengers, lamented the situation and complained about prolonged delays and inadequate care.
The actress added that passengers (including elderly people) have been stranded since 6:30 a.m. with no proper communication, adding that many were left hungry, exhausted, and without their bags” hours after being promised hotel accommodation.
Penpushing also reports that the video triggered reactions online, with other passengers echoing similar concerns about delays in baggage retrieval and lack of clear updates, and Air Peace in a follow up statement said the situation was misrepresented, insisting that affected passengers were informed and arrangements made for their comfort.
The airline management explained that the bird strike, considered a force majeure event in aviation, required the aircraft to be grounded immediately for safety reasons, explaining that hotel accommodation was arranged for passengers at a facility near the airport.
Penpushing reports that the authorities pointed out that additional challenges, including congestion and delays by ground handling services, affected baggage retrieval and movement to hotels.
“Baggage handling at international airports is managed by designated ground handling companies… Air Peace does not exercise direct control over these processes,” the airline said.
Penpushing further reports that the management maintained that passengers were not abandoned and that communication was maintained throughout the disruption.
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