Air Peace has announced possible flight delays and cancellations after one of its Airbus A320 aircraft was damaged by ground handling equipment at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 (MMA1) in Lagos.
The airline said the incident occurred shortly after Flight P47427 arrived safely from Kano and passengers had disembarked. A baggage conveyor belt vehicle operated by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) reportedly collided with one of the aircraft’s engines, leaving it unserviceable.
According to Air Peace, the damaged aircraft had been scheduled to operate several flights across its network in the coming days. As a result, the disruption is expected to affect flight schedules while the airline makes adjustments to its fleet.
In a statement, the airline apologised to passengers whose travel plans may be affected, assuring them that efforts are underway to reduce the impact of the incident.
“Our operational and customer service teams are working to minimise the inconvenience by providing available alternatives and ensuring that affected passengers receive the necessary assistance,” the airline said.
Air Peace added that the safety of its passengers, crew and equipment remains its highest priority and confirmed that it is working with the relevant ground handling company and aviation authorities to investigate the incident and prevent a recurrence.
NAHCO did not issue an official response, declining to comment when contacted.
However, a source familiar with the incident disclosed that the accident happened after the operator of the baggage conveyor belt vehicle reportedly suffered a medical emergency while on duty.
According to the source, the employee collapsed while operating the equipment, causing the vehicle to move uncontrollably before crashing into the aircraft’s engine.
The staff member was immediately taken to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment.
The incident has temporarily reduced Air Peace’s operational capacity, with passengers advised to expect schedule changes as the airline works to restore normal operations.
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