…disrupts multiple flights
Flight operations involving a newly acquired Embraer 195-E2 aircraft operated by Air Peace were disrupted on Boxing Day following a ground handling incident at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
The airline said the incident occurred when a luggage conveyor belt vehicle operated by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) allegedly struck the engine of the aircraft, registered as 5N-BYH, while it was on the ground after passengers had completed boarding.
The aircraft was scheduled to operate Flight P47750 from Lagos to Accra when the collision occurred.
Air Peace said the impact caused visible damage to the engine, including a dent and tear on the thrust reverser cowling, prompting an immediate safety assessment and the grounding of the aircraft.
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All passengers already on board were asked to disembark, resulting in delays and operational disruptions.
Industry sources confirmed that no fewer than nine scheduled flights assigned to the aircraft for the day were affected, with several passengers stranded or rebooked on alternative services.
The Embraer 195-E2 involved is among Air Peace’s newest fleet additions, making the damage particularly significant for the airline.
Beyond passenger inconvenience, the incident has financial implications, as engine-related repairs on modern commercial aircraft are capital-intensive. A similar cowling damage incident earlier this year reportedly cost the airline about $3.5 million to repair.
Aviation stakeholders have repeatedly raised concerns over ground handling safety standards at Nigeria’s busiest airports, citing issues linked to equipment condition, personnel training and ramp safety procedures.
They warned that such incidents disrupt airline operations, erode passenger confidence and impose heavy, avoidable costs on operators.
No injuries were reported, and investigations are expected to determine the exact circumstances of the collision, including equipment condition and compliance with standard operating procedures.
