LAGOS, Nigeria — Nigerian airline Air Peace has confirmed that one of its flights, operating the Lagos–Owerri route, made a precautionary return to base on Saturday, June 21, 2025, after the aircraft experienced a bird strike shortly after take-off.
The affected flight, numbered P47150, returned to Lagos for safety inspections in accordance with standard aviation protocols.
The incident caused a ripple of disruptions across parts of the airline’s domestic network.
In a statement released by the airline’s management, Air Peace apologised for the inconvenience and assured passengers that safety remains its top priority.
“We sincerely empathise with our passengers over the inconvenience caused and appeal for your patience and understanding as we work diligently to minimise disruptions,” the statement read.
“The safety of our passengers and crew continues to be our top priority,” the airline added.
Bird strikes — incidents where birds collide with aircraft, particularly during take-off or landing — are a recognised hazard in aviation.
While many result in minimal or no damage, aircraft are often required to return for inspection if there is any indication of potential compromise to flight safety.
Air Peace has experienced similar occurrences in the past. In one such case, a passenger on a previous Owerri–Abuja flight recounted how the aircraft was forced to return after a bird strike damaged the pilot’s windshield.
“The pilot and Air Peace took a very wise decision by bringing us back to Owerri,” the passenger wrote on social media, expressing gratitude for the crew’s response and for a safe outcome.
No injuries were reported in Saturday’s incident, and passengers were safely returned to the terminal.
