Air Peace has announced operational disruptions across its network after one of its Airbus A320 aircraft sustained substantial damage in a ground handling incident involving equipment operated by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.
The incident occurred on the night of July 14, shortly after Flight P47427 from Kano had landed and passengers had safely disembarked. According to the airline, a NAHCO baggage conveyor belt vehicle struck one of the aircraft’s engines while it was on the ground, leaving the aircraft unserviceable.
Air Peace said the damaged Airbus A320 had been scheduled to operate several flights over the coming days, making the incident a significant setback to its operations.
In a statement, the airline said the impact from the ground handling equipment rendered the aircraft “totally unserviceable,” forcing it to make adjustments across its fleet to maintain scheduled services.
As a result, the carrier warned that passengers should expect delays on some flights, while others may be cancelled as the airline reallocates aircraft to minimise the disruption.
Air Peace apologised to affected passengers, assuring them that its operational and customer service teams were working to provide alternative travel arrangements and necessary assistance wherever possible.
The airline stressed that safety remains its foremost priority and confirmed that it is working with NAHCO and the relevant aviation authorities to determine the cause of the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The incident highlights the critical role of ground handling operations in airline reliability, as damage sustained by aircraft while on the ground can have significant operational and financial consequences, including flight delays, schedule disruptions and aircraft downtime.
Air Peace said it appreciates the patience and understanding of its customers as it works to restore normal operations following the unexpected incident.
