Air Peace faces backlash over bird strike delays stranding passengers at London Gatwick

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigerian airline Air Peace is under fire after a bird strike disrupted its London Gatwick to Lagos flight, leaving passengers, including elderly individuals, stranded for over eight hours without adequate support, clear communication, or their luggage.

The incident, which began around 6:30 AM local time, prompted Air Peace to ground the affected aircraft for safety inspections by its engineering team in London.

In a statement on Friday, the airline explained, “We wish to inform our esteemed passengers that our London (Gatwick) – Lagos service today experienced a bird strike.

“In line with standard safety protocols, the affected aircraft has been grounded for comprehensive inspection and necessary checks by our engineering team in London.

“We sincerely empathise with passengers affected for any inconvenience caused by this unforeseen incident and appreciate your patience.”

Air Peace added that affected passengers had been notified of the next steps and emphasised its commitment to safety.

However, Nollywood actress and producer Funke Akindele publicly criticised the airline on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the human toll.

“Air Peace, this is unacceptable.
Passengers (including elderly people) have been stranded since 6:30AM at London Gatwick Airport with no proper communication.

“After hours of delay, we were told there was a bird strike and promised a hotel. Hours later, people are still sitting at baggage claim hungry, exhausted, and without their bags.

“Elderly passengers are struggling. Families are tired. No clear updates. No support.
Release passengers’ luggage immediately and provide the hotel you promised. Do something NOW.”

Reports from passengers echo Akindele’s account, describing unfulfilled promises of hotel accommodations, prolonged waits at baggage claim, and minimal updates amid exhaustion and hunger.

This marks the second bird strike issue for Air Peace’s UK-Nigeria routes in recent months, following a March 2026 incident on the Abuja-London flight.

In that case, the airline rejected abandonment allegations and provided rerouting to Lagos with hotel options.