(DDM) – Air Peace Limited has disclosed that its aircraft recorded no fewer than 49 bird strike incidents in 2025, a development the airline says has significantly affected its operations and added to the mounting challenges facing Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The disclosure was made by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Mr Allen Onyema, who described bird strikes as a persistent and costly safety concern that continues to disrupt flight schedules, increase maintenance expenses, and place additional pressure on airlines operating within the country.
According to Onyema, bird strikes occur when birds collide with aircraft, particularly during takeoff or landing, often damaging engines, windscreens, or other critical components, and forcing airlines to ground affected planes for safety checks and repairs.
He explained that each bird strike incident, regardless of how minor it may appear, requires mandatory inspection by aviation engineers to ensure passenger safety, a process that can lead to flight delays, cancellations, or aircraft withdrawal from service.
Onyema noted that the 49 incidents recorded by Air Peace in 2025 alone underscore the scale of the problem, adding that bird strikes remain largely beyond the control of airlines, as they are influenced by environmental factors and airport wildlife management practices.
The Air Peace boss stressed that while airlines invest heavily in safety and maintenance, the burden of repeated bird strike incidents places enormous financial strain on operators, particularly indigenous carriers already grappling with high operational costs.
Beyond bird strikes, Onyema highlighted other challenges confronting Air Peace and the broader aviation sector, including multiple taxation, high fuel costs, foreign exchange volatility, and what he described as persistent unfair criticism against local airlines.
He argued that Nigerian airlines are often judged harshly by the public without adequate understanding of the complex operational realities they face, especially when safety-driven delays or cancellations occur.
Providing background, aviation experts note that bird strikes are a global challenge, affecting airlines worldwide, but the impact can be more severe in countries where airport wildlife control measures and surrounding land use are poorly regulated.
In Nigeria, airports located near farmlands, refuse dumps, or water bodies are particularly prone to bird activity, increasing the risk of collisions with aircraft.
Onyema called for stronger collaboration between airlines, airport authorities, and government agencies to improve wildlife hazard management around airports, including better land-use control, grass management, and bird deterrent systems.
He emphasized that ensuring aviation safety is a shared responsibility and urged regulators to intensify efforts to mitigate environmental risks that threaten flight operations.
Despite the challenges, Onyema reaffirmed Air Peace’s commitment to safety, stating that the airline will continue to prioritise passenger well-being, comply strictly with aviation regulations, and invest in aircraft maintenance and crew training.
He expressed hope that with improved policies, reduced operational bottlenecks, and greater public understanding, Nigeria’s aviation industry can overcome its challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
The revelation has reignited conversations about aviation safety, infrastructure, and the need for holistic reforms to support domestic airlines operating in an increasingly demanding environment.