Air Peace has clarified the circumstances surrounding the disruption of its London (Gatwick) to Lagos flight on May 1, 2026, stating that the incident was caused by a bird strike.
The airline’s response followed a viral video on social media alleging that passengers were stranded without communication or necessary support.
Nigerian celebrity and actress/producer, Funke Akindele, had taken to her social media pages to call out the airline for allegedly abandoning their passengers and failing to release their luggage. She posted several videos to that effect.
But Air Peace in a statement said the aircraft involved in the service suffered a bird strike—an occurrence classified in aviation as a force majeure event—necessitating the immediate grounding of the plane for thorough safety inspections in line with global aviation standards.
The airline emphasised that safety remains its top priority, stressing that it would not operate any aircraft without the required regulatory clearance.
According to the statement, passengers were promptly informed of the incident and the resulting cancellation of the flight.
It stated that arrangements were also made to ensure their comfort, including hotel accommodation at the Hilton London Gatwick, as well as transit coordination.
Air Peace, however, noted that additional operational challenges, including airport congestion and delays from ground handling services, affected the timely retrieval of checked baggage. This, it said, contributed to delays in transferring some passengers to their hotels.
The airline explained that baggage handling at international airports is managed by designated ground handling companies operating under strict procedures and regulatory protocols, and is not directly controlled by airlines.
It maintained that at no time were passengers abandoned, adding that communication was sustained throughout the disruption and that all affected passengers were offered accommodation, with many already lodged at the Hilton London Gatwick.
Air Peace added that efforts are ongoing to deploy another aircraft to complete the journey to Lagos.
While acknowledging the inconvenience caused, the airline noted that aviation operations involve multiple stakeholders, strict safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, particularly during unforeseen events such as bird strikes.
The airline also described as unwarranted the criticism it has faced, insisting that timely announcements were made by the flight captain and that proactive steps were taken to ensure passenger safety and welfare.
Air Peace reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety, comfort, and service delivery, while appreciating the patience and understanding of affected passengers and the flying public.
