Air Peace has confirmed that one of its Airbus A320 aircraft suffered significant damage following a ground equipment accident at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 (MMA1), Lagos. The airline disclosed the incident in a statement signed by its management after Flight P47427 arrived safely from Kano and passengers had disembarked.
According to the Air Peace statement, the ground equipment accident has forced the aircraft out of service and disrupted the airline’s operations. The affected Airbus A320 had been scheduled to operate several flights across the carrier’s domestic network over the coming days, resulting in expected delays and possible cancellations.
Ground Equipment Operator
Further information on the ground equipment incident indicated that the conveyor belt operator working for the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) was driving the equipment into position for operation when he reportedly slumped and fell from the vehicle. The unattended ground equipment continued moving before crashing into the aircraft’s engine. The operator, identified as Sunday, was immediately taken to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) clinic, where he is currently receiving medical attention.
The airline in its statement confirmed the baggage conveyor belt vehicle struck one of the aircraft’s engines while it was on the ground, causing extensive damage and rendering the aircraft unserviceable. The impact immediately took the aircraft out of operation, prompting fleet adjustments to minimise disruption.
Air Peace said the damaged aircraft had been rostered to operate multiple scheduled services. Therefore, the unexpected loss of the aircraft has affected fleet availability. Several flights are expected to experience delays, while others may be cancelled as the airline rearranges its operations.
The airline expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers.
“We sincerely apologise to our esteemed passengers whose travel plans may be affected by this unforeseen ground handling incident. Our operational and customer service teams are actively working to minimise the inconvenience by providing available alternatives and ensuring that affected passengers receive the necessary assistance,” the management stated.
Air Peace also reaffirmed that safety remains its highest priority. The airline stressed that the wellbeing of passengers, crew members and its equipment continues to guide every operational decision. Meanwhile, it said it is working closely with the relevant ground handling company and aviation authorities to investigate the ground equipment incident and prevent a recurrence.
The management added: “At Air Peace, the safety of our passengers, crew, and equipment remains our highest priority. We are working closely with the relevant ground handling company and aviation authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and prevent a recurrence.”
Ground handling incidents involving airport support vehicles are relatively uncommon but can have significant operational consequences. Damage to an aircraft engine usually requires detailed engineering inspections, repairs and regulatory clearance before the aircraft can safely return to service. Consequently, airlines often adjust schedules to reduce the impact on passengers.
Air Peace thanked customers for their patience and understanding during the disruption. The airline assured passengers that every effort is being made to manage the operational challenges while maintaining the highest safety standards. It added that further updates would be provided as investigations progress and normal flight operations are gradually restored.
