A routine taxiing operation at Asaba International Airport in Delta State turned disruptive on Saturday, May 10, 2025, when an Air Peace aircraft struck a large antelope on the runway. The collision killed the animal instantly and left the aircraft damaged, resulting in it being classified as “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG) and causing immediate flight delays and cancellations.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), through its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, confirmed the incident on Sunday via his official X (formerly Twitter) account. He explained that although such events are beyond the control of airlines, they still come with significant operational consequences.
“Monitoring reports yesterday indicated that an Air Peace aircraft ran into a large antelope, decimating the animal and leaving the aircraft AOG (aircraft on ground). As a result, flights meant to be operated by this aircraft would naturally be disrupted, even though engineers are on the ground to assess and fix the plane. Passengers waiting would naturally be infuriated. Incidents like this are literal illustrations of the disruptions not caused by the airlines (domestic or international). This explainer is for illustration purposes, not to excuse airlines when they fail to do their duties to passengers. Despite such situations, the airline still owes its passengers information, refunds and other forms of care they are entitled to. The airline can face sanctions if it fails to provide these.”
While engineers continue working to restore the aircraft to service, the disruption has inconvenienced numerous travelers. The NCAA has reassured the public of its commitment to passenger safety and accountability within the aviation sector.
