Flight operations involving a newly acquired Embraer 195-E2 aircraft operated by Air Peace Limited were disrupted on Friday, Boxing Day, following a ground handling mishap at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
The incident occurred after passenger boarding had been completed, when a luggage conveyor belt vehicle operated by the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) reportedly struck the aircraft’s engine. The affected aircraft, registered as 5N-BYH, was scheduled to operate Flight P47750 from Lagos to Accra.
The collision caused visible damage to the aircraft, including a dent and tear to the Thrust Reverser Cowling, a critical component of the engine casing. This prompted immediate safety checks and the grounding of the aircraft.
Consequently, all passengers already on board were asked to disembark, resulting in delays and disruptions to scheduled operations.
Industry sources confirmed that no fewer than nine flights assigned to the aircraft for the day were affected, forcing many passengers to be stranded or rebooked on alternative flights.
The Embraer 195-E2 involved is among the newest additions to Air Peace’s fleet, amplifying the significance of the damage. Beyond the inconvenience to passengers, the incident carries financial implications, as repairs involving modern jet engines are typically expensive.
Earlier this year, Air Peace reportedly incurred repair costs estimated at $3.5 million following a similar engine cowling damage incident.
Aviation stakeholders have continued to raise concerns about ground handling safety standards at major Nigerian airports, particularly MMIA, pointing to recurring challenges such as equipment condition, personnel training, and adherence to ramp safety procedures.
They warned that such lapses not only disrupt airline schedules but also undermine passenger confidence and impose avoidable financial burdens on operators.
No injuries were recorded in the incident. Investigations are expected to establish the exact cause of the collision, including the state of the equipment involved and compliance with standard operating procedures.