Jet blast incident grounds United Nigeria aircraft at Lagos Airport

United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed that one of its aircraft sustained damage at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos after being affected by a jet blast from a nearby plane during ground operations.

The development was disclosed in a travel advisory released by the airline on Sunday, indicating that the incident occurred at the domestic terminal while the aircraft was preparing for another flight.

The airline explained that the aircraft, an Embraer 190, had earlier arrived from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport on Flight UN0503 and was on standby for its next scheduled departure when the mishap happened.

“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.

According to the airline, the aircraft was stationed in an open parking bay alongside two other planes at the time of the occurrence, with multiple movements happening within the vicinity.

“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 simultaneous manoeuvres created a strong jet blast in the 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 further explained that the powerful blast caused ground equipment to shift, leading to the damage.

“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.

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The aircraft, which was scheduled to operate Flight UN0500 around noon, suffered damage to key exterior parts.

“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Following the incident, the airline said the aircraft had been withdrawn from service as a precautionary measure.

“In adherence to our strict and uncompromising safety standards, the affected aircraft has been withdrawn from service for comprehensive inspection before returning to operations,” it stated.

United Nigeria Airlines reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and operational excellence, while apologising for any inconvenience caused.

“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.

The airline also assured affected passengers that steps were being taken to manage disruptions and provide necessary assistance.

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