United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed that one of its aircraft was damaged in a ground incident at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, following a jet blast from a nearby aircraft.

The airline disclosed this in a travel advisory issued on Sunday, stating that the incident involved one of its operating aircraft parked at the airport’s domestic terminal.

According to the statement, the aircraft, an Embraer 190, had arrived from Akanu Ibiam International Airport on Flight UN0503 and was preparing for another scheduled trip when the incident occurred.

“United Nigeria Airlines wishes to inform its valued passengers and the general public of a ground incident involving one of its operating aircraft at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MM2), Lagos,” the statement read.

The airline explained that the aircraft was parked in an open bay between two other planes when multiple ground movements took place simultaneously.

“While preparations were ongoing to board passengers for another scheduled flight, a nearby aircraft, having completed its own boarding process, commenced taxiing. At the same time, another aircraft was executing a pushback onto the taxi line,” it stated.

The airline noted that the combined movements led to a powerful jet blast within the ramp area.

“During these simultaneous ground movements, the taxiing aircraft manoeuvred in a manner that generated significant jet blast within the ramp area,” the statement added.

It said the force of the jet blast displaced ground equipment, which then struck the aircraft.

“The force of the jet blast displaced a baggage trolley belonging to a ground handling company, which subsequently made contact with the United Nigeria Airlines aircraft,” it said.

The affected aircraft was scheduled to operate Flight UN0500 at noon.

Providing details of the damage, the airline said critical external components of the aircraft were impacted.

“The impact resulted in damage to external components, including the antenna and the forward fuselage area near the nose landing gear,” the statement noted.

Following the incident, the airline said it had taken immediate safety measures by grounding the aircraft for further checks.

“In adherence to our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for comprehensive inspection before returning to operations,” it stated.

The airline reassured passengers of its commitment to safety and operational standards, while acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the disruption.

“United Nigeria Airlines remains committed to upholding the highest safety standards. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this unforeseen development may cause to your travel plans,” the statement added.

It further assured affected passengers that efforts were ongoing to minimise disruption and provide necessary support. (Sunday PUNCH)

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