“Monitoring reports yesterday indicated that an Air Peace aircraft ran into a large antelope, decimating the animal and leaving the aircraft AOG (aircraft on ground),” Achimugu said.
An Air Peace aircraft collided with a large antelope at Asaba Airport on Saturday, leaving the animal dead and the plane grounded. Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s director of public affairs, confirmed the incident on X, stating: “The aircraft ran into a large antelope, decimating the animal and leaving the aircraft AOG (aircraft on ground).” Engineers are assessing the damage, but flight disruptions are expected.
Achimugu clarified that such incidents are beyond airlines’ control but emphasized carriers’ obligations to passengers: “Airlines still owe passengers information, refunds, and care…failure to provide these can lead to sanctions.” The collision highlights rare but impactful wildlife hazards in aviation, sparking passenger frustration over delayed flights.
Air Peace has yet to issue a formal statement on compensation or revised schedules. The NCAA continues to monitor the situation as repairs proceed. Wildlife strikes remain an operational challenge for Nigerian airports, particularly those near undeveloped terrain.
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