Air Peace Addresses Abuja-London Flight Disruption Caused by Bird Strike, Refutes Passenger Abandonment Claims

Air Peace has issued a denial regarding claims circulating online that passengers on its Abuja to London flight were abandoned after the flight was turned back on March 13, 2026.

In a statement released by the airline’s management on Saturday, it was emphasized that all passengers were accounted for during the incident.

The airline explained that the aircraft made a return to its base following a crack in the windshield, which was likely caused by a bird strike.

According to Air Peace, the decision to head back was made in compliance with standard aviation safety protocols.

The flight landed safely at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where passengers were able to disembark while technical checks were performed on the aircraft.

Following the incident, the airline assured that all passengers were promptly offered alternative travel arrangements.

Affected travelers had the option to either fly the same day on the airline’s Lagos-Gatwick route or travel the next day on the Abuja to London service.

Air Peace noted that many passengers were transported at no extra charge to Lagos to connect with the Lagos-Gatwick flight, while others chose to depart the following day from Abuja.

Additionally, hotel accommodations were provided for those who needed overnight stays.

The statement reiterated, "We assert that not a single passenger was left behind."

The airline expressed disappointment over what it referred to as misleading reports insinuating that passengers had been abandoned.

Air Peace stated that these accounts misrepresented the sequence of events regarding the situation.

"As a responsible carrier, Air Peace preserves a cooperative and productive relationship with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and remains dedicated to adhering to regulations, ensuring passenger safety, and maintaining operational transparency," the statement further added.

The airline expressed gratitude to the passengers for their patience and understanding throughout the disruption, reaffirming that safety is the foundation of its operations, and pledged to uphold the highest standards in providing secure and reliable air travel services.