Between 2017 and 2025, Nigeria’s aviation sector has been marred by several safety incidents, ranging from bird strikes and emergency landings to severe mechanical failures and runway accidents. These events have raised concerns about the country’s aviation safety standards, regulatory oversight, and the effectiveness of preventive measures.
In January 2025, a United Airlines flight from Lagos to Washington, D.C., was forced to make an emergency return to Lagos due to unexpected aircraft movement shortly after takeoff. The incident resulted in serious injuries to four passengers and two crew members, with several others sustaining minor injuries. Investigations into the cause are still ongoing.
Just a month later, in February 2025, an Allied Air Cargo aircraft skidded off the runway in Abuja. Fortunately, all five individuals on board survived, but the event once again highlighted concerns over runway safety and aircraft maintenance within the country.
In December 2024, a Max Air Boeing 737 lost its nose landing gear tire while attempting to land in Kano. The aircraft skidded along the runway, causing panic among the 59 passengers onboard. Miraculously, there were no casualties, but the incident added to growing fears over aircraft maintenance and airworthiness in Nigeria.
November 2024 saw yet another serious aviation incident when an Air Peace flight scheduled from Abuja to Lagos suffered a bird strike before takeoff. The pilot aborted the flight, and passengers were evacuated safely. The airline swiftly deployed a replacement aircraft, but the incident raised concerns over the effectiveness of Nigeria’s multi-billion naira investment in bird strike prevention systems at major airports.
A month earlier, in October 2024, a tragic helicopter crash occurred near Bonny Finima. The helicopter, operated by an oil firm, was en route from Port Harcourt to an offshore oil facility when it lost contact and crashed into the Atlantic Ocean. At least three fatalities were reported, and investigations are still underway to determine whether mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions were responsible.
Bird strikes have remained a major challenge for Nigerian aviation over the years. In August 2022, an Air Peace flight from Lagos to Owerri had to make an emergency landing back in Lagos after a bird strike damaged its landing gear. Although no casualties were reported, the incident reinforced concerns over the safety of aircraft operations in the country.
On May 11, 2024, an XE Jet Embraer ERJ-145 operating flight 2N-902 from Abuja to Lagos veered off the runway upon landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. The incident occurred during heavy rainfall, which caused the aircraft to skid off the runway and onto soft ground. Fortunately, all 49 passengers and three crew members evacuated safely without injuries. While no lives were lost, the event raised concerns about the preparedness of Nigerian airports for adverse weather conditions and the adequacy of runway maintenance to prevent such excursions.
In January 2025, a United Airlines flight from Lagos to Washington, D.C., experienced sudden in-flight movements that led to injuries among several passengers and crew members. The aircraft was forced to return to Lagos, where emergency services attended to those affected. The turbulence was severe enough to prompt an immediate investigation by aviation authorities, as questions arose about the stability of the aircraft and whether pre-flight assessments had adequately accounted for weather patterns and air turbulence risks. The incident highlighted the need for stricter safety protocols and improved passenger protection measures during long-haul flights.
These incidents reflect the urgent need for stronger regulatory oversight, improved aircraft maintenance practices, and enhanced safety measures to prevent further aviation mishaps.
Nigeria’s aviation sector has witnessed a range of passenger experiences, from commendable service to significant challenges. While some travelers praise the efficiency of certain airlines, others have faced frustrating delays, miscommunication, and a lack of accountability.
Many travelers have expressed frustrations over flight delays and cancellations without adequate communication from airlines.
One passenger recounted a nearly 10-hour delay with United Nigeria Airlines, stating that there was no announcement or explanation until they actively sought information. The flight, initially scheduled for 7am, eventually departed at 4:50pm, severely disrupting the passenger’s schedule and leading to additional expenses. Such experiences are not uncommon, as delayed flights have become a major source of dissatisfaction for Nigerian air travelers.
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