Nigeria’s leading carrier, Air Peace Limited, has clarified circumstances surrounding the disruption of its May 1, 2026 London Gatwick–Lagos service, attributing the incident to a bird strike and rejecting claims that passengers were abandoned without care.
In a statement issued by its management, the airline said the affected aircraft was immediately grounded for mandatory safety inspections following the incident, describing bird strikes as a recognised “force majeure” event in global aviation that necessitates strict compliance with safety protocols.
The airline stressed that passenger safety remained paramount, noting that it would not operate any aircraft without full regulatory clearance.
According to the statement, passengers were promptly informed of the cancellation and provided with support, including hotel accommodation at the Hilton London Gatwick, alongside arrangements for onward transit.
Air Peace, however, acknowledged operational challenges, citing airport congestion and delays by third-party ground handling services responsible for baggage processing. These delays, it said, slowed the retrieval of checked luggage and affected the timing of passenger transfers to hotels.
The airline explained that baggage handling at international airports is managed by designated service providers operating under strict regulatory frameworks, limiting the airline’s direct control over the process.
Rejecting allegations circulating on social media, Air Peace maintained that communication was sustained throughout the disruption and that no passenger was left unattended. It added that all affected travellers were offered accommodation, with many already lodged while alternative flight arrangements are being finalised.
While expressing empathy over the inconvenience caused, the airline emphasised that aviation operations involve multiple stakeholders and complex safety procedures, particularly during unforeseen events.
Air Peace further described the criticism surrounding the incident as “unwarranted,” insisting that timely updates were provided by the flight captain and that appropriate measures were taken to ensure passenger welfare.
The airline reaffirmed its commitment to safety, passenger comfort and continuous improvement in handling operational disruptions.
